Former East 17 member John Hendy, now 55, has embarked on a new career path – roofing – decades after achieving fame with the 90s boy band.

From Pop Stardom to Roofing

Hendy regularly documents his work on TikTok, showcasing a return to the profession he held before his musical success with Tony Mortimer, Brian Harvey, and Terry Coldwell. He has amassed over 5,000 followers, with his videos often receiving positive feedback, though some viewers express surprise at his current job.

Defending Against Criticism

His wife, Nina, frequently defends him against online criticism with humorous responses. Last year, Hendy revealed that he had spent all of his earnings from his time in the band.

The Realities of Fame and Fortune

Many online commenters question why a former pop star would choose manual labor, often assuming significant wealth from record sales and royalties. Nina consistently addresses these comments with playful humor, jokingly suggesting she is responsible for the family’s finances.

East 17's Rise and Challenges

East 17, formed in 1991, achieved considerable success with hits such as ‘Stay Another Day’ and ‘If You Ever.’ The band faced challenges in 1997 when Brian Harvey was dismissed following controversial statements regarding ecstasy use.

A Grounded Lifestyle

Hendy has stated he does not own a home and drives a work van, a contrast to the lifestyles of some of his former bandmates. Despite this, he maintains he wouldn’t trade his experiences, acknowledging that fame is a dream for many.

Reflecting on a Changing Landscape

Hendy’s story resonates with a growing trend of former boy band members reflecting on the complexities of fame. Recent accounts from Mikey Graham of Boyzone and Robbie Williams of Take That have highlighted the pressures and challenges of the music industry.

Trade-offs and Memories

Hendy emphasizes the importance of accepting both the positive and negative aspects of a life in the spotlight. He recalls memorable moments from his time in East 17, including encounters with celebrities like Pamela Anderson and Phil Collins, filming a Pepsi commercial in Moscow, and performing internationally. He also remembers the band’s early days, their initial record deal, and their modest weekly wage.

Ultimately, Hendy’s story is one of adaptation and finding contentment in a more grounded profession.