Exclusive to this week’s Big Issue (Monday 22 April), new dad Olly Murs has reflected on his life journey – from being catapulted to fame on the X Factor, to presenting it alongside close friend Caroline Flack, whose death by suicide had a huge impact on him.
“I would love to talk to Caroline again,” Olly tells the Big Issue. “She was a huge part of my life and career. Special person, special friend. We had an interesting relationship, but it was great.
“It’s mad because people say they visit you in your dreams. Caz does that quite frequently actually. It’s lovely when people that pass away do that.
“Since Caroline passed, I’ve made those moments. It’s the most surreal moment but it’s lovely when them days happen. I’d love to see Caz again and chat to her.”
Observing that life in the spotlight takes its toll on celebrities’ mental health, Murs admits to having therapy to cope with his own issues. “Anyone in this profession has suffered from some mental health issues. Everyone I’ve met – everyone – has suffered with depression or anxiety or worry. Talking to other people is the most important thing.
“At some point in my life, I had to go and see a therapist. For someone who’s looked at as a bit of a geezer I’m not afraid to admit that. Sometimes you just need another voice from the outside that isn’t family, that aren’t your friends, to get to the nitty gritty of who you are and understand why you’re feeling like this.”