Mel B rose to fame 20 years ago as fiery Scary Spice – renowned for her larger-than-life personality and no-nonsense attitude.But as her 40th birthday approaches on 29 May, sources say Mel B is feeling more isolated than ever and is “a shadow of her former self.”
The star saw her eight-year marriage to Stephen Belafonte face intense scrutiny last December amid allegations of violence and claims he’d held her captive at their home. Mel denied all reports and insisted Stephen would never hurt her.
And sources say that while Stephen is planning a lavish birthday do, Mel is devastated that her much-publicised feud with her family in the UK is still ongoing, and they won’t be there for her big day.
A source reveals: “Mel’s 40th is approaching but she’s admitted the day will be tinged with sadness. Stephen’s organising a big dinner for her in LA and wants to really splash out to make it special. He’s got the kids to all plan something for the day.
"But she would have liked to have reconnected with her estranged parents and sister by her big milestone birthday, and dreamt of everyone coming together. Knowing that won’t happen is disappointing.”
Read the full report in this week’s Closer – out now