Why Did Diana Ross Leave the Supremes? Real Reason behind the Group's Breakup

Although Diana Ross is one of America's most cherished singers, not everyone is entirely aware of the real reason why she left The Supremes, the group that kickstarted her career.

Diana Ross might be 78, but her shows are as exciting as ever. She closed the Platinum Party at the Palace concert on June 4, 2022. Over 22,000 people gathered to commemorate Queen Elizabeth and her 70 years on the throne.

Ross's performance was iconic. Apart from singing her beloved classics "Chain Reaction" and "Ain't no Mountain High Enough," it was her first stage appearance in the UK in 15 years.

WHO IS DIANA ROSS?

Born in Detroit, Michigan, in March 1944, Ross fell in love with music as a child and began singing with her friends Mary Wilson, Florence Ballard, and Barbara Martin in the group The Primettes.

Martin eventually left, and the band's remaining members changed its name to The Supremes. The trio achieved international fame in the 1960s, topping the pop and R&B charts everywhere.

The Supremes made 12 of their singles No. 1 hits, making them the American music group with the most Billboard chart-toppers in history.

Although Wilson and Ballard's singing skills were outstanding, Ross was the main star. The trio even changed its name to Diana Ross and The Supremes, but Ross left the band to pursue a solo career in 1969, and she eventually dipped her toes in acting.

WHY DID DIANA ROSS LEAVE THE SUPREMES?

One of the main reasons Ross left The Supremes was Motown's founder Berry Gordy, the same person who changed their name to Diana Ross & The Supremes.

Wilson said she didn't think Ross wanted [a reunion].

Gordy was famous for nurturing tensions between bandmates when one of them was significantly more popular than the rest, and it was no different with The Supremes. He explained:

"Diana never wanted to leave the girls. She was more or less pushed out, but that's what happens when a person is upfront, and people are telling the background singers that she's stealing the show."

Gordy also admitted that Ross was his favorite singer out of the trio. They were romantically involved for five years and shared a daughter, which probably caused tensions in the band.

When Ross left The Supremes, the only original Supreme left was Wilson (Ballard had already been put out). Wilson said that being a Supreme without Ballard and Ross was hard.

Fans have expected a reunion for decades, but Wilson revealed it was up to Ross. However, it is unlikely to happen because Wilson said she didn't think Ross wanted one.

WHAT'S THE SECRET TO DIANA ROSS'S BEAUTY AND HEALTH AT 78?

Even if they don't reunite, The Supremes already accomplished plenty in the music industry. Ross is still wowing audiences at 78, and she has shared the secrets to looking and being beautiful and healthy.

After battling anorexia during her time in The Supremes, Ross prioritized her health. Nowadays, she watches what she eats, exercises frequently, and does intermittent fasting. What a legend!