Cosmo Girl Interview-March 2002
Gareth Gates
So Gareth, Pop Idol- How was it for you?
Mad! Since it started i've been mobed everywhere i go.Being part of Pop Idol has fulfilled my dreams.
What was Simon Cowell really like off camera?
I really like Simon. He's a cool guy and i respect his honesty.
You were favourite to win for most of the competetion. Did that put extra pressure on you?
Only within the group. Sometimes when we were out someone would say "You're brilliant," Which mad me feel uncomfortable. The press focused on me more because of my stammer.I didn't think it was fair, but it was out of my hands.
Whats with the westlife obsession?
Westlife are my idols. They've had loads of number 1's and have millions of screaming girls after them.Thats what i want. Bring on the screaming girls.
When did your speech problem start?
Ever since i first started to talk. My dad had a bad stammer when he was young, but it just went when he was 21, so hopefully i'll follow that pattern.
Has your stammer cause any problems with girls?
Yes! When you meet a girl you're nervous anyway and the first thing they ask you is your name. And i don't know why, but when you stammer yor name is the hardest thing to say. Actyually, can you print this: In the past i've found it hard to chat up the ladies so can they chat me up please.
Is there any truth in the rumours about you and Zoe?
No! I'm single. I'm so focused on my career right now, having a relationship would be hard. Obviously i'm on the hunt, but i'm not looking for a serious relationship. Yet.
Have you ever been in love?
I don't know, but i've had the feeling when i've liked the girl so much i couldn't eat, sleep or think about anyone else.
Are you worried about kiss and tell stories?
When i was eight i had millions of girlfriends. I was a right stud. But from the age of 14 i didn't really have a girlfriend so i haven't done much of that anyone could kiss and tell about.
Pop Idols like Britney make a big deal about the virginity issue. You're a simular age as she was when she became big- what's your take on it?
And finally, was it all a fix?
Yeah! [Laughs] No, i'm joking, it wasn't fixed. There were lots of rumours, but when Rosie Ribbons went out we were all amazed. If it was fixed she wouldn't have gone when she did.
