Tom Grennan has backed Robbie Williams’ recent comments about the mental health pressures faced by celebrities, saying he understands why downtime is so essential for everyone.
Speaking to the Bedford Independent while helping promote Popchips at Cardington Tesco, Tom reflected on how life in the public eye can take a toll, even when things seem positive on the surface.
While meeting fans recently (25 April), some of whom thought they were attending a market research event and were surprised by Tom, he was grateful for the genuine support. Still, he emphasised that fame doesn’t shield people from everyday struggles.
“I think everybody needs their downtime, whether you’re a celebrity or not,” he said, “Especially with the pressures of life and social media, everyone needs their little switch-off to reset themselves.”
Supporting Robbie
His comments come after singing superstar Robbie Williams spoke last month about how constant requests for selfies and fan interactions had increased his anxiety, even as he appreciated the support.
Robbie urged fans to be mindful of the pressures performers can face.
Tom said he understands those pressures and believes it’s vital that artists speak openly about mental health.
“I’m just a normal person like everybody else. I’m human, and everybody else is human; it’s important to remember that,” he said.
Platform for good
Tom has long supported mental health priorities, and his latest song, “Boys Don’t Cry,” was recorded in collaboration with the mental health charity Mind.
While he is careful not to brand himself as a campaigner, Tom said he felt a duty to use his voice to encourage conversations about struggles that often remain hidden.
“I don’t want to be the face of mental health, but I know I’ve got a voice, and people are listening,” he said.
“All I wanted [with Boys Don’t Cry] was to open up a conversation for men and women, for everybody, just to speak about struggles.”
Staying grounded
Despite major successes, including a new album, a forthcoming UK arena tour, and major brand collaborations, Tom said remaining grounded was crucial for his well-being.
Raised in Bedford by a hardworking family, Tom said the values of humility, hard work and kindness had been instilled in him from a young age and continue to guide him.
“You don’t get anything for free, and hard work pays off,” he said. “Whatever direction I’d have gone in, I’d have put the hard work in.”
With both Robbie Williams and Tom Grennan using their experiences to spark meaningful conversations, it’s clear the stigma around mental health, particularly among public figures, is finally being challenged.
Tom’s message was simple: whether you’re famous or not, taking time to protect your mental health is something everyone needs to feel able to do.
“Cool to see the fans”
Tom spoke to the Bedford Independent during a visit arranged by Popchips, which recently featured his face on their packaging as part of a special campaign. “I wouldn’t put my face on anything else,” he said. “Popchips is a brand that I actually do like.”
The surprise event at Tesco in Cardington saw fans expecting a snack-focused market research session, only to meet the chart-topping singer face-to-face.
“It’s pretty cool to see the fans,” said Tom, who spoke warmly about returning to his hometown. “Coming home is always a special thing,” he added.
