A major 1980s announcement
Scott treated Mike Nolan leaving The Fizz as one of pop’s great line-up-change moments.
He compared it with Geri Halliwell departing the Spice Girls, Robbie Williams leaving Take That and Zayn Malik quitting One Direction.
Mike had announced that he would perform one final show before stepping down after 43 years.
Why Mike is leaving
Mike said he had been considering retirement for several years.
The travelling schedule had become too demanding and he wanted a quieter life.
Scott was surprised because Mike always appeared to enjoy the group’s festivals, Pride appearances and 1980s weekenders once he reached the venue.
Cheryl Baker explains
Scott called Cheryl Baker directly.
She confirmed that Mike had repeatedly discussed leaving and had finally decided the travel was too much.
Living in Broadstairs meant every performance began and ended with a substantial journey.
Cheryl said Mike still loved the camaraderie and seeing other 1980s performers, but no longer wanted the exhausting schedule.
What happens to The Fizz?
With only Cheryl and Jay Aston remaining, the group needed new members to restore the traditional two-women, two-men line-up.
Listeners joked that losing another member would reduce The Fizz to simply “The F”.
There were reports that two replacements would be recruited, while Mike planned a solo album.
The Birthday Game
The Monday contestant faced three number-one songs from 5 August.
Handover
Scott handed over after beginning a campaign to help The Fizz survive another major line-up change.
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