Pussycat Dolls Original Member Feels Left Out of Group’s Reboot
A significant rift appears to have emerged within the iconic Pussycat Dolls, as one of the group’s longest-standing members, Carmit Bachar, has voiced her disappointment at being excluded from recent reunion plans. While Kimberly Wyatt, Nicole Scherzinger, and Ashley Roberts have unveiled a new single and announced an upcoming world tour, Bachar claims she was not consulted and learned of the developments through public announcements.
Bachar, who was instrumental in the group’s early days and its journey to a record deal, expressed her feelings on Instagram. “I was not contacted regarding the group’s decision to move forward, and I learned of these plans at the same time as the public,” she stated. The 51-year-old singer-dancer, who boasts a substantial social media following, emphasised the personal impact of this oversight. “Given my history with the brand, having been part of its foundation long before its commercial debut and instrumental in the connections that led to the record deal… I would have appreciated direct communication.”
The decision by the newly reformed trio to proceed without her has been described by Bachar as “disappointing on a personal level.” Despite this, she maintained a sense of pride in her contribution to the Pussycat Dolls’ legacy. “I remain ‘proud of the role I played in helping shape what The Pussycat Dolls became’,” she added. Bachar clarified her intentions in sharing her experience, stating, “My intention in sharing this is not to create division, but to honour the truth and the fans who have supported us throughout the years.” She concluded by affirming her commitment to well-being and positivity: “Transparency and respect are values I hold deeply. At this time, I am choosing to focus on my well-being and to move forward with positivity and purpose.”
Bachar’s history with the Pussycat Dolls is extensive. She initially joined the group in 1995, during its formative years as a burlesque troupe performing at notable West Hollywood venues like The Viper Room and The Roxy Theatre. Her journey with the Grammy-nominated girl group has seen periods of both intense involvement and temporary departures. She previously left the band in 2008, citing an ultimatum from the record label that required her to choose between a tour and a long-term creative project. Bachar later rejoined the group in 2019 for a highly anticipated comeback, which was ultimately cancelled in 2021 due to the global COVID-19 pandemic.
A Multifaceted Career Beyond the Dolls
Carmit Bachar’s career extends far beyond her tenure with the Pussycat Dolls. The “Voodoo” singer is also a dedicated mother, raising her 14-year-old daughter, Keala Rose, with her husband of 17 years, Kevin Whitaker, founder of Special Touch Media.
Before her rise to fame with the Pussycat Dolls, Bachar honed her performance skills as a competitive rhythmic gymnast. This athletic background undoubtedly contributed to her prowess as a dancer. She has served as a sought-after backup dancer for some of the biggest names in the music industry, including Beyoncé, Michael Jackson, Janet Jackson, Jennifer Lopez, Aaliyah, the Black Eyed Peas, Ricky Martin, and No Doubt. Her talent has also graced the silver screen, with appearances in films such as 13 Going on 30, Along Came Polly, Charlie’s Angels: Full Throttle, The Hot Chick, and Good Burger.
The Current Pussycat Dolls Lineup and Future Plans
Meanwhile, the current iteration of the Pussycat Dolls, featuring Wyatt, Scherzinger, and Roberts, has been actively promoting their new single, “Club Song,” which features collaborations with Lil Kim and Mya. The trio was recently spotted in Manhattan, dressed in coordinated white outfits, as they engaged in promotional activities for the track, which was released last week.
Wyatt, Scherzinger, and Roberts are also reissuing expanded versions of the group’s successful albums, PCD and Doll Domination. Their upcoming “PCD Forever Tour” is set to be a substantial undertaking, with 53 dates scheduled to commence on June 5 at the Acrisure Arena in Palm Desert, California.
Leadership Dynamics and New Ventures
The Pussycat Dolls have experienced numerous member changes throughout their history. However, Nicole Scherzinger has consistently been recognised as the lead vocalist, with other members often taking on more of a supportive, “glorified backup dancer” role in the past. Scherzinger, a Tony Award-winning performer, was involved in a protracted legal dispute with Pussycat Dolls founder Robin Antin, reportedly over creative control and profit-sharing. This legal battle, which spanned four years, concluded last year.
Antin, the 64-year-old choreographer, appears to be fully supportive of Scherzinger’s prominent role in the new Pussycat Dolls lineup. She was seen in Manhattan alongside the group, actively participating in behind-the-scenes promotional efforts for the tour.
In other news, Scherzinger is also venturing into acting with a mystery role in director Rebel Wilson’s upcoming comedy, Girl Group. The film is set to feature a star-studded cast, including Jennifer Coolidge and Randall Park.
