Jesy Nelson’s sister hits back at Perrie Edwards after star brands former bandmate 'difficult'

Nelson's sister shared a message on Instagram, saying she was tired of hearing 'lies and accusations'

Jesy Nelson’s sister has publicly defended the singer after Perrie Edwards described her former Little Mix bandmate as “difficult” during a candid podcast interview, reigniting discussion about the long-running rift between the pair.

The dispute began after Edwards appeared on Jamie Laing’s Great Company podcast and reflected on her relationship with Nelson, who left Little Mix in December 2020. During the interview, Edwards said she felt Nelson needed to take some accountability for past behaviour and admitted she no longer sees a future friendship between them. She also revealed that watching Nelson’s documentary, Life After Little Mix, caused her to withdraw from the idea of rebuilding their relationship.

In response, Jesy’s sister Jade Nelson shared a strongly worded message on Instagram, saying she was tired of hearing “lies and accusations” directed at her sibling. She argued that very few people understand the extent of what Jesy endured through years of public scrutiny, bullying and criticism about her appearance. Jade suggested that people often tell others to “be the bigger person” and stay silent, but said there are times when speaking out is necessary.

She also defended Jesy’s decision to share her side of the story publicly, noting that the singer has faced intense challenges throughout her career and personal life. Jade maintained that there is often far more to situations than what the public sees and implied that Jesy has been unfairly judged.

Despite her criticism of Nelson, Edwards stressed during the podcast that she still cares about her former bandmate. She said she was heartbroken when Jesy’s twin daughters, Story and Ocean, were diagnosed with Spinal Muscular Atrophy Type 1 and admitted that seeing Nelson go through the ordeal “broke” her. Edwards explained that the pair will always share a connection because of everything they experienced together in Little Mix.

The latest exchange comes months after Nelson suggested she would be open to a future reconciliation with Edwards, Jade Thirlwall and Leigh-Anne Pinnock, saying “never say never” when discussing the possibility of a full Little Mix reunion.

Little Mix, made up of Jesy Nelson, Perrie Edwards, Jade Thirlwall and Leigh-Anne Pinnock, became the first group to win The X Factor in 2011 and went on to become one of Britain’s most successful girl groups. Nelson departed in December 2020, citing the impact of fame on her mental health, while the remaining trio continued until announcing a hiatus in 2022.