Linda Nolan’s career as part of the iconic singing group, The Nolans, is one marked by a rollercoaster of highs and lows, both in the public eye and in her personal life. Known for their infectious hit I’m In The Mood For Dancing in 1979, Linda and her sisters captured the hearts of fans around the world, propelling the group to stardom. But behind the glittering facade, the Nolan family endured turmoil, loss, and private battles that would ultimately shape Linda’s journey.
Rise to Fame with The Nolans
Born into a musical family in Ireland, Linda Nolan was part of a close-knit group of sisters who formed The Nolans. Initially performing in clubs and on television shows, the Nolans caught the public’s attention in 1979 with I’m In The Mood For Dancing, a catchy disco anthem that reached number three on the UK charts. The song’s upbeat sound became a defining track of the late 70s and early 80s, helping The Nolans secure seven top 20 hits in the UK. Their success wasn’t confined to British shores, as they built a massive following in Japan and even toured with Frank Sinatra.
Despite their success, the Nolans’ image was often associated with bubblegum pop, with songs like Spirit, Body and Soul and Don’t Make Waves. But even as critics like Paul Morley dismissed the formulaic nature of their music, there was no denying the group’s ability to create feel-good pop anthems. The Nolans’ upbeat sound and public persona seemed to promise nothing but success in the entertainment industry.
Personal Struggles and Family Secrets
However, behind the scenes, Linda and her sisters faced personal struggles that would affect their lives and careers. Growing up in a family where music was the foundation of their livelihood, the Nolan girls worked tirelessly in nightclubs and TV performances. Linda’s father, Tommy Nolan, managed the group, but his behavior was far from ideal. An alcoholic and a womanizer, he was also revealed to have sexually abused his eldest daughter, Anne, a painful secret that wouldn’t come to light until years later when Anne published her autobiography in 2008.
Linda opened up about the anguish Anne must have felt, living in a family that adored their father despite his dark side. The trauma that Anne endured would later become part of the public narrative, and Linda spoke about the complexity of emotions tied to their father’s actions. Linda admitted that Anne’s decision to write the book was likely cathartic for her, but it also caused a deep rift within the family.
Solo Career and Personal Life
In 1983, after years of group success, Linda left The Nolans to pursue a solo career. While The Nolans’ musical reign came to an end, Linda made her mark in musical theatre, with one of her most notable roles being Mrs. Johnstone in Blood Brothers on the West End. The transition to musical theatre allowed Linda to showcase her versatility, and she enjoyed a successful run in this space. She also made regular appearances on TV shows, including a high-profile stint on Celebrity Big Brother in 2014, where tensions between her and comedian Jim Davidson made headlines.
However, it wasn’t long before Linda’s personal life began to unravel. Her marriage to Brian Hudson in 1981, despite the objections of her parents due to their age difference, ended in separation after Brian was fired as The Nolans’ tour manager. Linda left with only £13,000, which was soon wiped out by a tax bill. The financial strain was further compounded in 1995 when she and Brian declared bankruptcy. Linda admitted that the volatile nature of showbusiness often led to financial instability.
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Tragedy and Health Battles
The 2000s marked a devastating chapter in Linda’s life. In quick succession, her sister Anne was diagnosed with breast cancer, followed by Brian’s skin cancer diagnosis, and then Linda’s own battle with breast cancer in 2001. While Anne recovered, Linda’s emotional and physical health suffered significantly, and she struggled with depression following Brian’s death in 2007. In an interview, Linda revealed how the loss of Brian left her contemplating suicide, but she later chose to focus on the positives, including her work and the support of her family.
In 2009, Linda was given a glimmer of hope when she reunited with her sisters for a tour celebrating the 30th anniversary of I’m In The Mood For Dancing. However, the reunion was marred by family tensions, with Anne accusing her sisters of betraying her. The reunion tour and attempts to support Bernie, who was also battling breast cancer, were bittersweet as the sisters grappled with the fractures in their relationship.
Final Years and Legacy
Linda’s health continued to deteriorate as she faced another battle with cancer, which ultimately spread to her brain. Despite her second diagnosis, she remained steadfast in her desire to live her life with joy. In her autobiography From My Heart, Linda spoke about her decision to focus on the small joys in life and cherish the time she had left, refusing to let her illness define her.
Linda passed away in 2023, but her legacy as a talented performer and resilient individual will remain in the hearts of those who knew her. Through her music with The Nolans, her successful theatre roles, and her candid reflections on her personal struggles, Linda Nolan’s life was a testament to both the fleeting nature of fame and the strength it takes to face adversity head-on.