Sophie Ellis-Bextor has revealed that she hopes to engrain two of her passions on her five sons before they fly the nest.
The Lost In The Sunshine singer and songwriter, 44, shares sons Sonny, 19, Kit, 14, Ray, 11, Jesse, eight, and Mickey, four, with her The Feeling bassist husband Richard Jones, 44.
Speaking to The Standard in partnership with McCain’s new Baby Hasselbacks, she said: “I’m hoping that all of them leave home being able to dance and being able to cook; that’s the two things really.
“Richard and I both love cooking. He is the son of a chef and I’ve been cooking since I can remember really. Even on my lunchbreak from school I’d come back and make myself something to eat cos I’ve always found it really relaxing.
“We’ve got five kids and suppertime swings into view very quickly so anything we can do that’s fast and tasty and a bit fun is always welcome. If there’s anything that’s a frozen potato in our freezer in any shape it’s a McCain’s potato," the London-born star – who released her seventh studio album, Hana, in June – continued.
"Some days we have the indulgence of time and other days you need to have something exciting that you can do quite quickly and I’m sure other people can relate to that. Richard and I genuinely get excited about every meal and I think you always want your kids to take on."
As for the dancing, Ellis-Bextor reached the final of Strictly Come Dancing in 2013 alongside Brendan Cole, eventually finishing fourth overall.
She also loves throwing shapes during her live shows and promises there will be plenty of boogying during her latest tour, Christmas Kitchen Disco, which comes to the Eventim Apollo in London’s Hammersmith on December 5.
“The kids will come along to the London show and are already planning their outfits. My little two absolutely love coming out and dancing with me for about one song but this morning on the way to school the eight-year-old was trying to negotiate more stage time,” she laughed.
"I’m just glad some of them want to come, not all of them want to. I don’t make them do it, I’ll just say 'who fancies it?' And anyone who puts their hands up I’m just happy for them to come along."
• Sophie Ellis-Bextor has partnered with McCain to launch its latest tasty innovation, After research found that 60% of Brits eat the same dinner up to four times each week, Sophie stars in a new campaign saving couples from a lack of mealtime inspiration with McCain Baby Hasselbacks. These skin-on, whole baby potatoes are pre-sliced for a feel good wow factor then slow baked for flavour and crispiness, presenting the perfect solution to those struggling with the monotony of boring midweek meals. Available now at Tesco, ASDA, Sainsbury’s, Morrisons, Waitrose, Iceland and Co Op, RRP of £3.69.
