Pussycat Dolls Reunite as Trio Amid Internal Tensions

The Pussycat Dolls are making a comeback, but not all original members will be part of the reunion. Nicole Scherzinger, Kimberly Wyatt, and Ashley Roberts announced they will tour as a trio starting June 2026, leaving behind former members Carmit Bachar, Melody Thornton, and Jessica Sutta. The announcement has sparked a mix of excitement and disappointment among fans and former members alike.

During a live interview on the 3rd Hour of TODAY on March 20, Scherzinger, Wyatt, and Roberts discussed their decision to tour as a trio. When asked about the absence of the original members, Scherzinger stated, "We are just, we are like, we are so. As women today..." Wyatt added, "It has been an ever-changing lineup, and you know, this is what it looks like now in 2026." Scherzinger emphasized their respect for all the women who have been part of the Pussycat Dolls legacy, saying, "Once a doll, always a doll."

However, the announcement has not been without controversy. Carmit Bachar took to Instagram to express her disappointment, revealing she was blindsided by the reunion plans. "I was not contacted regarding the group’s decision to move forward, and I learned of these plans at the same time as the public," she wrote. Bachar, who was instrumental in the group's early success, described the situation as "disappointing on a personal level" but affirmed her pride in her contributions to the group.

Jessica Sutta echoed similar sentiments, stating she learned about the reunion just the night before the public announcement. "I simply would have appreciated a heads-up earlier so I could process everything privately and handle the situation with a bit more grace and dignity," she said, wishing the touring members a successful tour.

The trio's reunion comes five years after earlier plans fell through, and they are set to embark on a 53-date world tour called the PCD Forever Tour, alongside the release of a new single titled "Club Song." The Pussycat Dolls, originally formed as a burlesque troupe, shot to fame in the mid-2000s, selling 15 million albums and 40 million singles from just two studio releases. Their popularity has endured, making them one of the most recognizable girl groups in pop history.

Despite the excitement surrounding the tour, internal tensions have resurfaced. Reports suggest that Nicole Scherzinger was involved in a legal dispute with the group's founder, Robin Antin, over profit-sharing and creative control. Claims emerged that Scherzinger had initially agreed to receive 49% of tour revenues but later demanded an increase to 75%, along with complete creative authority. This dispute was reportedly resolved in November 2024, allowing the current trio to move forward with their plans.

Kimberly Wyatt, one of the trio members, has been vocal about the challenges of aligning all six original members for a reunion. "It's really difficult to get everybody on the same page," she remarked. "We're in a place now where women need to support women and come together to create something really beautiful." Wyatt has expressed hope for future collaborations with the other members but acknowledged the complexities involved.

Meanwhile, Melody Thornton, who is also not part of the reunion, has maintained a close friendship with Scherzinger but has expressed feelings of underappreciation during her time in the group. In previous interviews, she has mentioned that she felt sidelined, as Scherzinger took on most of the vocal responsibilities while the other members focused on choreography. Despite her absence, Thornton has wished her former bandmates well, stating, "All the best to them. I have my own projects going on, and I'm happy with that."

As the reunion approaches, the dynamics within the group remain complex. Bachar's absence has not gone unnoticed, with fans expressing their disappointment and even calling for her inclusion in the tour. Supporters have taken to social media, stating, "It ain't the @pussycatdolls if @therealcarmit isn't there." Bachar has been sharing her own creative projects on social media, indicating that she is focusing on her well-being and artistic endeavors outside the group.

Bachar's history with the Pussycat Dolls dates back to 1995 when the group was still a burlesque act. She played a crucial role in shaping the brand, helping to secure their record deal and contributing to their early success. In her Instagram statement, she emphasized the importance of transparency and respect: "My intention in sharing this is not to create division, but to honor the truth and the fans who have supported us throughout the years."

As the PCD Forever Tour kicks off in June, the trio of Scherzinger, Wyatt, and Roberts will undoubtedly face scrutiny not only for their musical performances but also for how they navigate the ongoing challenges of their past relationships with former members. The anticipation for the tour is palpable, but the emotional landscape surrounding the reunion is equally significant.

In addition to their new single, the trio is also reissuing expanded versions of their successful albums, PCD and Doll Domination. As they prepare for their first concert at the Acrisure Arena in Palm Desert, California, on June 5, the excitement is mixed with the bittersweet reality of their fractured relationships with former bandmates. With the world watching, the Pussycat Dolls are set to make a statement—one that will resonate far beyond the stage.