Tears filled the Loose Women studio as Shirlie Kemp recalled the emotional moment she realised just how deeply her son Roman Kemp’s message had touched people across the nation. 😢

The former pop star — best known from Wham! and Pepsi & Shirlie — is a proud mum to two children: singer-songwriter Harley Moon and beloved presenter Roman Kemp, whom she shares with her husband, Martin Kemp, of Spandau Ballet fame.

💬 “I Stood There Crying and Holding Her…”

Over the years, Roman Kemp has been open about his battle with mental health, bravely using his platform to start conversations many are too afraid to have. In 2021, he fronted the BBC documentary Roman Kemp: Our Silent Emergency — a deeply personal film exploring how young men are struggling in silence, inspired by the tragic loss of his close friend Joe Lyons, who took his own life.

During her recent appearance on Loose Women, Shirlie Kemp spoke through tears as she remembered an encounter that left her completely broken.

“I was in Marks & Spencer,” she recalled softly. “A young woman came up to me and said, ‘Roman’s documentary was so powerful.’ Then she told me her brother had taken his own life… and she wished he could have seen something like that.”

“I stood there crying and holding her,” Shirlie continued. “Because you realise that if there’s even one person you can save — just one — that’s enough. I’m proud of Roman for doing that. It’s the heaviest of topics, but it has to be done.” 💔

🌹 A Mother’s Pride, A Son’s Purpose

For years, Roman has spoken openly about his ADHD diagnosis and mental health challenges. He’s used his platform — from Capital FM to the BBC — to push for compassion, honesty, and change.

Earlier this year, Roman paid tribute to his late friend Joe Lyons, marking five years since his death. Posting an emotional video of Joe on Instagram, Roman wrote:

“Can’t believe it’s been five years since you’ve been gone, bud. Still one of the best commentators I’ve ever heard.”

He also tagged Joe’s Buddy Line, an initiative encouraging open conversations about mental health in partnership with suicide prevention charity Shout.

❤️ “If You Can Save One Life, It’s Worth It”

The story of Roman Kemp and his mother Shirlie is one of courage, compassion, and connection. A son turning pain into purpose — and a mother standing beside him every step of the way.

“He’s faced darkness and used it to bring light to others,” Shirlie said proudly.
“And as a mum, that’s all you can ever ask for.” 🌟