Mel C says 1996 argument with Victoria Beckham nearly cost her Spice Girls spot

Mel C, also known as Sporty Spice, recalled on The Louis Theroux Podcast that a heated exchange with band‑mate Victoria Beckham at the 1996 BRIT Awards almost led to her removal from the Spice Girls. After a celebratory night that included champagne and a table with Lenny Kravitz, she snapped, telling Beckham to “f—k off.” The following morning, manager Simon Fuller warned her that any repeat would see her out of the group. Bandmates Mel B and Geri Halliwell were “disgusted” by her outburst, and C feared she would lose everything she had dreamed of since childhood. At the time the group had not yet released their breakout hit “Wannabe.” The dispute did not result in her departure, and the Spice Girls went on to sell over 100 million records worldwide. In the interview C also touched on the pressure she felt, addressed past speculation about her sexuality, and mentioned her personal life, including her 17‑year‑old daughter Scarlett and her relationship with Australian model Chris Dingwall.

She also reflected on broader issues, noting that the Spice Girls’ members had diverse political views, and she expressed personal opposition to the legacy of former UK Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher.