It was a ratings hit and paved the way for talent shows like the X Factor. And this year marks two decades since ITV’s Popstars: The Rivals first hit our screens. But what happened to its former stars?
The singer from Ladbroke Grove, West London, found herself at the centre of a scandal when she had an affair with So Solid Crew rapper MC Harvey in 2006, while he was married to Mis-Teeq rapper Alesha Dixon.
Javine Hylton
Now a dad-of-two, Matt, 36, is still in music and has a big fanbase, getting more than a million monthly streams on Spotify.
Matt Johnson
Keith auditioned for the US version of The Voice and got a place with judge Adam Levine from Maroon 5 but was eliminated in the very first live show.
Keith Semple
Nicola turned down a chance to be in Girls Aloud after quitting the show in an apparent row over pay. She later revealed she didn’t sign the contract because her jealous boyfriend gave her an ultimatum.
Nicola Ward
Hazel remained on good terms with Popstars: The Rival judge Louis Walsh and wrote songs for Jedward who he mentored on the X Factor.
Hazel Kaneswaran-Grogan
Emma, from Northampton, appeared on the reality TV show Paris Hilton’s British Best Friend. She now works as a relationship manager for a top PR company.
Emma Beard