It feels like only yesterday that Dublin’s twin pop stars John and Edward Grimes first made their appearance on our tv screens and in our hearts, so it may be hard to believe that the pair turn 31 today. For those of us who have long been a part of their journey (11 years in my case), we’ve seen them grow in their talents and convictions in that time, and we know that their future continues to be bright.
It’s been a great year for Jedward. Their reputation as on-form political commentators continues, speaking out against the illegal occupation of Ukraine by Russia, as well as standing with protesters arrested for daring to suggest the British monarchy is an outdated institution. Naturally this has brought them, in equal numbers, new supporters and detractors, but they refuse to back down.
Their protests haven’t all been online. Last November, John and Edward were in LA where they joined others in the #FreeBritney movement protesting outside the Stanley Mosk Courthouse, as Britney Spears was finally released from her conservatorship.
Musically, Jedward have teased songs from their upcoming fifth album, which will hopefully be released before the end of this year. In July fans joined them on the Voice Of A Rebel tour, their first since the outbreak of the Covid-19 Pandemic, with concerts in Manchester, London, and Glasgow. While it was exhausting, quite a lot of fans attended all the gigs, as it was the first time many had seen the twins since 2020.
John and Edward have been on TV this past year too, perhaps indicating a new, more serious direction, participating in Dublin’s Zoo Week, and we shall see them on Sky Arts at Christmas time as they show their artistic side on ‘Celebrity Portrait Artist Of The Year’.
It wasn’t all serious though, with July seeing John and Edward opening the Dublin Krispy Kreme flagship store. Fans queued from 5am to see the twins, who arrived at 7, staying until 11 to make sure they met everyone.
Jedward are currently in Los Angeles, where they have been seen attending Vegan Fashion Week events, as well as catching up with the likes of their great friend Tara Reid, and Corey Feldman. They even recorded a lively rendition of Queen’s ‘We Will Rock You’ with the pair:
So there you have it. Happy birthday Jedward! Here’s wishing that 31 brings you all your hearts desire. We look forward to continuing with you on your journey!
