Aston Merrygold, the former JLS member who gained fame as a runner-up on the 2008 season of X Factor, shared his thoughts on the challenges of early success in the entertainment industry. Reflecting on his journey, Merrygold noted that he was just 20 years old when thrust into the limelight, a time when many of his peers were still in university. He acknowledged the 'dangerous' nature of sudden fame, especially after the tragic death of Liam Payne in October 2024, which left him shaken. Merrygold emphasized the importance of having a support system while navigating the pressures of fame, stating, "It's a very tempting but dangerous industry in that sense."

Despite these challenges, JLS, which includes members Marvin Humes, JB Gill, and Oritsé Williams, has sold over 10 million records and is set for a series of sold-out shows this summer. Merrygold expressed gratitude for the opportunity to return to music as an adult, appreciating the lessons learned over the years. Now living in Hertfordshire with his wife and three children, he has shifted his focus from fame to family, stating, "Fame's cool and money's great, but there are a lot more valuable things in life."