Fergie
Biography
Stacy Ann Ferguson was born on March 27, 1975, in Hacienda Heights, California. Her career in entertainment began at a young age with voice work for Peanuts cartoons and a starring role on the television show "Kids Incorporated" from 1984 to 1989. Growing up, she was a cheerleader, a straight-A student, and a spelling bee champion.
Music Career
Wild Orchid
In the 1990s, Fergie, along with Stefanie Ridel and fellow "Kids Incorporated" alum Renee Sandstrom, formed the pop group Wild Orchid. The group released two albums, "Wild Orchid" (1997) and "Oxygen" (1998). Despite some moderate success, the group failed to achieve mainstream popularity, and after their third album was shelved by their record label, Fergie left the group in 2001. During her time with Wild Orchid, Fergie developed an addiction to crystal meth, which she later overcame in 2002.
The Black Eyed Peas
In 2002, Fergie joined the hip-hop group The Black Eyed Peas, a move that would catapult her to international fame. Her first album with the group, 2003's "Elephunk," was a massive success, featuring hit singles like "Where Is The Love?" and "Hey Mama." The group's follow-up album, "Monkey Business" (2005), also topped the charts and earned them multiple Grammy Awards. Their 2009 album, "The E.N.D.," produced three number-one singles and solidified their status as pop music powerhouses. Fergie's presence was crucial to the band's more commercial sound and mainstream success. She officially left The Black Eyed Peas in 2018 to focus on her solo career and family.
Solo Career
In 2006, Fergie released her debut solo album, "The Dutchess," to immense success. The album spawned three Billboard Hot 100 number-one singles: "London Bridge," "Glamorous," and "Big Girls Don't Cry." Two other singles, "Fergalicious" and "Clumsy," reached the top five. This achievement made "The Dutchess" the first debut album since 1989 to have five top-five singles. Her second solo album, "Double Dutchess," was released in 2017. The album was accompanied by a visual experience and was released on her own label, Dutchess Music.
Other Ventures
Acting
Fergie has also pursued an acting career, with roles in films such as "Poseidon" (2006), "Grindhouse" (2007), and the musical "Nine" (2009). She also did voice work for the movie "Marmaduke" (2010).
Business and Fashion
Beyond music and acting, Fergie has launched several successful business ventures. She released a line of fragrances with Avon, starting with "Outspoken" in 2010. She has also designed handbag collections and launched her own footwear lines.
Personal Life
Fergie married actor Josh Duhamel in January 2009. They have one son, Axl Jack, born in August 2013. The couple announced their separation in September 2017.