In a deeply emotional revelation that casts new light on the glittering legacy of 1970s teen idols Bay City Rollers, recently resurfaced reports have confirmed that Les McKeown, the band’s charismatic lead singer, had been struggling with alcohol addiction since the age of 19. The story, largely kept out of the public eye during the group’s meteoric rise, reveals the private battle that haunted the voice behind hits like Saturday Night and Shang-a-Lang.
While fans across the world screamed for McKeown in the band’s heyday — his tartan outfits and energetic performances defining an era of youthful pop — few realized the toll that fame, pressure, and personal demons were taking behind the scenes. Close friends and former colleagues have now come forward, sharing that his dependence on alcohol began shortly after joining the band in the early 1970s, as he struggled with the sudden shift from obscurity to global stardom.
By all accounts, McKeown kept up a public image of confidence and charisma. However, those closest to him say he was plagued by anxiety, self-doubt, and the mental strain of maintaining a perfect persona for an adoring fanbase. In past interviews, McKeown himself acknowledged the darkness behind the spotlight, referring to alcohol as “my secret escape” during endless tours and media pressure.
His addiction led to several periods of personal crisis, including strained relationships, legal issues, and health scares. In later years, McKeown was more open about his struggles. He checked into rehab more than once, determined to rebuild both his health and relationships. “I wanted to beat it,” he said in one interview. “Not for the fame, but for the people I loved — and for myself.”
Despite his personal battles, McKeown continued to perform for decades, fronting reunion tours and solo shows that delighted fans around the world. Those who saw him on stage rarely suspected the private pain that accompanied the spotlight.
Les McKeown passed away suddenly in 2021 at age 65, leaving behind a legacy both bright and bittersweet. For many fans, this revelation deepens their admiration, highlighting not only his talent but his quiet resilience in the face of immense internal struggle.
The resurfaced accounts serve as a powerful reminder: even those who shine the brightest onstage may carry hidden battles off it.