BBC star, 60, hits back after being called out for looking ‘unrecognisable’ 23 years after resurfacing

Known for her iconic red locks and credentials as the ultimate vocal impresario for the BBC, Carrie Grant was an unmistakable presence on our screens as a pair of expert eyes on talent shows Pop Idol and Fame Academy. 

Last week, the TV vocal coach, 60, switched up her hair, and while you will be relieved to know she still rocks her trademark flame-hued locks, she now sports a stylish mullet hairstyle.  

However, after candidly taking to her Instagram account, showing off her new do and with an au naturel complexion, Carrie came under scrutiny for her “unrecognisable” new appearance, which she addressed in a new video you can see above, on Thursday.

Hitting back

“It’s quite amazing the pressure that is on us as women to have beauty standards, and look a certain way and to always look polished. I posted a film two or three days ago and I didn’t have any makeup on I said: ‘Omg, I’m sorry I haven’t got any makeup on’ I shouldn’t have apologised but I did. 

“But it was very interesting to see how people responded, everyone was very positive on my feed which I was not really asking for that either way, I was talking about something completely. But it was very interesting to see how the Daily Mail managed to put it, saying ‘Carrie Grant from Fame Academy looks worlds apart from how she used to look on Fame Academy.”

Carrie continued: “It made me think, the pressure that is on us 23 years later, of course I’m going to look different. I was 37, I’m now 60, I’m now proud of being 60, I’m proud of the wrinkles I’ve got, I’m proud of being the way that I am at this age and having lived in my skin for this long[…].”

The message was met with support from Carrie’s almost 22,000 followers who weighed in in the comments section. 

“You look absolutely stunning in both posts. I’m 60 in January, and echo everything you say above,” one follower replied, adding of Carrie’s stylish new look: “P.S. love the hair.”

A second replied writing: “Carrie, I honestly didn’t realise you were 60 – you are still looking so young! Your message is spot on; my wife doesn’t wear makeup and she’s never more beautiful than in the morning. No apologies needed!”

Meanwhile, a third added: “I’m so with you on this [red love heart emoji].”