Photo Credit:Getty Images
Mel B has reflected on what she considers the most painful moment of her time with the Spice Girls, revealing that Geri Halliwell's departure from the iconic girl group remains her worst memory.
Speaking to The Telegraph UK in an interview published on July 13, the singer and television personality recalled the shock of learning Halliwell had left the band in 1998.
"Finding out Geri had left us on May 29, 1998, was my worst memory," Mel B, 51, said. "It was on my birthday. We've all spoken about it since, and I understand why she made that decision, but at the time it was devastating because I simply didn't know the reason."
Halliwell officially exited the Spice Girls in May 1998, explaining that creative differences, exhaustion and growing dissatisfaction had influenced her decision. Following her departure, the remaining members, Mel B, Victoria Beckham, Emma Bunton and Melanie Chisholm, continued performing as a four-piece before the group went on an indefinite hiatus in December 2000.
Victoria Beckham previously shared her own memories of that period during an appearance on the Call Her Daddy podcast in October 2025. She admitted the group was caught completely off guard by Halliwell's exit.
"She just left. We had no idea until she simply didn't show up," Beckham recalled, adding that the band has since reached a place where they can laugh about the experience.
Despite the difficult chapter, the Spice Girls have reunited on several occasions over the years, delighting fans with reunion performances.
Mel B also spoke about some of her happiest memories with the group, describing them as unforgettable experiences. She highlighted meeting Nelson Mandela, performing at Wembley Stadium and spending time with Princes William and Harry at Kensington Palace.
Recalling the royal visit, she said the group made peanut butter and jam sandwiches for the young princes, who she described as polite, charming and delightful children. She also joked that one of the brothers had a childhood crush on Emma Bunton, although she could not remember which one.
The singer also reflected on seeing Prince William years later when he presented her with an MBE. She revealed she wore a dress designed by Victoria Beckham, joking that it was slightly revealing where the medal was pinned.
Formed in 1994, the Spice Girls, made up of Mel B, Halliwell, Beckham, Bunton and Melanie Chisholm, became one of the biggest pop groups in the world, leaving a lasting impact on music and pop culture.
