Another one bits the dust: Grammy-nominated singing troupe The Pussycat Dolls lost two members over the weekend, with powerhouse Ashley Roberts cutting ties with the group just hours after bandmate Kimberly Wyatt announced her departure.
The band has been seeped in controversy for months. The trouble without the fold first hit headlines last summer, after several members, including ex-Doll Jessica Sutta, lashed out at frontwoman Nicole Scherzinger for her alleged diva behavior and preferential treatment from label bosses. Last November, group founder Robin Antin announced that the group would be going on hiatus before returning with a new album in 2010. On Sunday, Wyatt announced she was ditching the dolls after growing uncomfortable with the variable “off-stage.” Now Roberts has followed her lead, quitting the group to pursue her dream of acting.
“It’s time to answer your question. Yes, I have left the Pussycat Dolls. I love you all sooo much (sic)! I am so grateful to have the love and support of all of you. It was an amazing ride and I learned so much!” Ashley wrote in a personal message to fans posted on her website early Monday. “I am currently have (sic) gotten the acting bug and am falling in love with it. I have a few projects in the works and when ready I will announce more details to all of you. I am also in the studio recording some of my own music….” she continued.
“You all mean the world to me and I’m excited to take you all on a new adventure. An adventure full of creativity, inspiration, learning, growing and lots of fun. All my love, Ash.”
Ashley also notes that she recently wrapped production on a MTV pilot with former Danity Kane star Aubrey O’Day and R&B star Omarion.
Nicole Scherzinger and Melody Thornton, who both joined PCD in 2003, are the last remaining original members of the group.