Pregnant Nicola Roberts Steps Away from West End Show Ahead of Surgical Procedure

The news marks an early and unexpected departure from what Roberts had called a "dream come true," ending her five-month run without a final bow.

On January 9, 2026, Nicola Roberts took to Instagram to share a heartfelt announcement with fans, revealing that she would no longer be able to complete her final week in the West End production of "Hadestown."

The 40-year-old singer and actress, who has played Persephone in the acclaimed musical since summer 2025, disclosed that she would be stepping back due to medical advice ahead of a surgical procedure. In the caption of her Instagram post, Roberts wrote:

"I'm so sad and disappointed to have to share this news with you all. Today I have learnt that I have to undergo a small surgical procedure and have been informed by my doctor that as a result I will be unable to complete my final week of 'Hadestown' shows. Everything is ok 🤍"

"I am heartbroken I won't get to share the stage with my incredible cast who I love dearly and perform for the passionate 'Hadestown' audiences I've had the privilege to get to know over these last 5 months," she added.

"I have adored playing the role of Persephone, it has been a dream come true and I'm so upset not to be able to fulfil my final week and to leave the show without a proper goodbye," the post continued.

"I'm so sorry to anyone who had organised trips and booked tickets for my last week. This is completely out of my control and really I have to follow my doctor's instructions. Sending love to everyone, thank you for your continued support and understanding ❤️," Roberts concluded.

Several fans also expressed their disappointment while still extending grace and compassion.

Roberts' post prompted an outpouring of support from followers, many of whom acknowledged her pregnancy, which she publicly announced on December 25, 2025.

On Christmas Day, she shared another post revealing, "Mitch and I have had the most magical Christmas Day sharing the most precious news with our families. We've been keeping a secret. We are five months pregnant! We can't wait to meet our little one in the spring 🤍x"

In light of her recent health update, many rallied behind the former Girls Aloud singer. One person shared, "Totally heartbreaking.. Health comes first especially having a little one to be welcomed this spring. Sending love and support."

Another typed, "Your health is a priority! @lilcola hope you and the baby are doing ok! Look after yourself! Sending you lots of love 🧡🧡🧡"

A third added, "I'm so heartbroken for you but you are doing the right thing for you and your little one growing inside you. Hope all is well, take lots of rest and we shall see you soon! 🧡"

Others echoed similar sentiments, with one writing, "You are pregnant. You and your little one's health matters far more. Take care of yoursefl, Queen Bee [sic]."

Several fans also expressed their disappointment while still extending grace and compassion. One follower commented, "@lilcola I'm literally gutted to hear this news."

"And I was supposed to come on your final night on the 18th, I also got you a little present to give to you at the stage door, rest easy Nicola and I hope to see your little one and you on stage very very soon, Love you goddess ❤️❤️ [sic]," they continued.

Roberts' recent decisions reflect a broader shift in her personal outlook — one shaped by both age and experience. Speaking during her 40th birthday celebrations in October 2025, the Lincolnshire-born star remarked on how she has grown to appreciate ageing, saying:

"I have friends that didn't manage to make it to 40. So it is a privilege to get older. We should show gratitude for ageing, because it means we're around a little bit longer, and that is imperatively important."

Once the youngest member of Girls Aloud, Roberts has emerged as a woman embracing change and wellness on her own terms. "There's freedom at any age if you truly accept and love who you are," she said at the time.

The loss of her friend and former bandmate Sarah Harding, who died from breast cancer in 2021 at the age of 39, served as a profound turning point. "I've got gentler with myself," Roberts admitted, crediting the tragedy with prompting her to step away from the pressure of constant self-improvement.

That shift is evident in her decision to prioritise her health and that of her unborn child. Though her final curtain call in "Hadestown" may have come earlier than planned, Roberts leaves behind a role she called "a dream come true," and a fanbase eager to welcome her back when the time is right.