Sam Bailey may have become a household name after winning The X Factor in 2013, but the down-to-earth singer says her motivations were never about fame. “I only went on the show to get a new kitchen,” she admits with a laugh. “Not for clout, just something practical. But I’ve been given this platform, and I’ve run with it.”
Now 48, the former prison officer has carved out a strong presence in musical theatre, with roles in Chicago and Everybody’s Talking About Jamie, and she recently wowed crowds at the Paul Stank Charitable Trust Summer Ball.
But while her career has soared, her heart remains at home in Leicester with husband Craig Pearson, her partner of 22 years, and their three children. Life, however, hasn’t been without its trials. Sam’s teenage son Tommy, who is autistic, was diagnosed with epilepsy last year – a diagnosis that brought terrifying moments and new routines.
“I have alarms set for 7am and 7pm UK time, wherever I am in the world, just to check Tommy’s taken his meds. If he doesn’t, he could have a major seizure,” Sam says. He even suffered a seizure days before his maths GCSE, forcing the family to fight for an exemption.
Through it all, Sam remains unstoppable. She’s just completed her 24th cruise performance and plans to pursue TV and film acting next. “I’d love a comedy role or something on EastEnders. I think I’ve got the chops now after doing seven musicals,” she says.
Support from friends like Stephen Graham, star of Adolescence, has made a huge difference. When Sam’s son expressed interest in acting, she messaged Stephen. “Stephen sent him a four-minute voice note full of advice. Tommy listened, auditioned for acting college, and he got in. That’s massive for a kid with autism and epilepsy.”
Sam remains close with Rebekah and Jamie Vardy, and warmly recalls their kids growing up together. “We bumped into Stephen Graham and his family at a soft play centre once. It was surreal!” she laughs.
She might joke about making a mess when she returns home from touring, but Sam’s focus is crystal clear. “I don’t care what my kids do, as long as they’re happy – and get stamps on their passports. There’s a big world out there.”
