Kym Marsh (real name - Kym Gail Ryder) is an English actress and singer. She was born in Whiston, Knowsley, Merseyside, England, on 13 June 1976.

Marsh grew up in Ashton-in-Makerfield, Greater Manchester. Ryder first arose to fame when the reality TV show Popstars emerged. She is presently most recognizable from her role as Michelle Connor on the long-running ITV soap opera “Coronation Street” which she has played since 2006.

After becoming one of the chosen five for the group now called “Hear'Say”, she and fellow group mates were moved into a mansion, in preparation for the single and album launch. Whilst auditioning for the group, she kept it a secret that she had two children, David and Emily, who were then aged 5 and 3. She became particularly noticeable when she became angry and emotional when one judge, Nigel Lythgoe, advised her to lose weight. Cursing and crying, Marsh refused to be judged, but became popular with the public.

“Hear'Say” hit the no 1 spot with debut single “Pure & Simple” and also with their debut album “Popstars”. Their album, “Popstars”, went on to sell 1.2 million copies in the UK, followed by their own television show entitled “Hear'say It's Saturday”, performing with established artists such as Lionel Richie, Joe Pasquale, Bradley Walsh, Blue and Atomic Kitten. Subsequently the band achieved a 37 date sell-out arena tour and performed numerous television guest appearances.

After a while out of the spotlight, Kym emerged again, signing a solo record deal with Island Records. Her first single, “Cry”, went to no 2 in the UK singles chart, whilst her 2nd single “Come On Over made” no 10.

In July of 2003 Kym released her debut solo album which contained her three solo singles and twelve other tracks.

Kym's 'make-or-break' 3rd single, “Sentimental”, stalled at no 35 resulting in her being dropped by her record label. Kym has since expressed her unhappiness whilst she was in the music industry.

www.kymmarsh.com