Brian Connolly Pushes Back Against Tabloid Claims in Lively MVTV Interview
A rarely revisited television interview featuring Brian Connolly, lead singer of The Sweet, offers a revealing snapshot of the band’s turbulent mid-1980s period, mixing sharp humor, media controversy, and early talk of a possible reunion. The appearance, broadcast on MVTV from London’s ATLA Palais, shows Connolly in combative but confident form as he addresses rumors that were circulating heavily in the British press at the time.
Early in the interview, host Mick Brown raises a recent newspaper story alleging that Connolly arrived late for a gig and walked offstage, with insinuations of drug use. Connolly firmly rejects the claims, stating that every detail in the article was untrue. He explains that any delay was due to an agent arriving late at the train station, not his own actions, and strongly denies ever taking drugs. Connolly reveals that his legal team had warned the newspaper not to publish the story, but it ran regardless, leaving the matter to be settled in court.
Despite the tension surrounding the media accusations, Connolly makes it clear that he is back on the road performing under The Sweet name, backed at the time by a Birmingham-based lineup. More intriguingly, he confirms that discussions about a full reunion with the original members were “very much on the cards.” Press speculation had already attached large figures to the idea, with Connolly acknowledging reports of offers exceeding one million pounds, though he suggests the exact numbers were exaggerated by journalists.
The interview then shifts into lighter territory, touching on The Sweet’s flamboyant image and the ongoing 1970s revival. Connolly jokes about the band’s iconic platform shoes, leather outfits, and famously styled hair, confirming that many of the original stage costumes still existed and could be altered for future performances. He notes that the leather work was handled by the wife of one of the band’s guitarists, emphasizing the surprisingly hands-on, family nature behind the group’s glamorous image.
By the end of the segment, the tone softens into nostalgia and humor, with Connolly appearing relaxed, witty, and visibly energized by the idea of The Sweet returning to prominence. Far from being “ripped to shreds,” the interview captures an artist pushing back against sensational headlines, reaffirming his professionalism, and teasing a comeback that fans had long hoped to see.
Today, the clip stands as a fascinating period document, highlighting the clash between rock stars and tabloids, and reminding viewers that behind the glitter and controversy, Brian Connolly remained deeply invested in The Sweet’s legacy.