Katy Perry shared on social media the heartbreaking news of the loss of one of her managers, Martin Kirkup, with a series of photo memories.
Martin, who passed away on February 4, 2024, at the age of 76, was remembered fondly by Katy Perry, despite his aversion to social media, for his exceptional character.
On Instagram, Katy wrote,
“It’s taken me a little while to make this post…something about posting it makes it all feel, final… and even though Martin wasn’t particularly fond of social media and its sensationalism, I must respectfully take a moment and speak on how special he was and is to me.”
“I say this because I personally don’t believe that anyone ‘dies’; they simply move on to the next dimension. They aren’t here anymore, but are now EVERYWHERE.”
Katy added,
“Martin Kirkup was one of my managers at Direct Management for almost 20 years. He was the bulldog of our group – the one who always said, ‘Show me the data, the P&L, the science, the facts!’ If all else failed, he would just say, ‘That’s ridiculous!’ or some other cheeky, witty, eloquent one-liner with an English accent and all would be convinced.
“Martin was one of my protectors. He was vigilant about getting me what I deserved and celebrated the headstrong female I am.
“I have been so fortunate to have an INCREDIBLE team by my side for almost 20 years before I had (as my father from Memphis would say) a pot to pee in or a window to throw it from!
“Martin, along with all of my managers, have literally fought day in and day out for my voice to be heard, and I have SO much pride, respect, and admiration for my team at Direct Management.”
Katy Perry disclosed that Martin, the British music executive, had the opportunity to listen to some of her new music prior to his passing.
“Three days before he passed, he finally got to hear some of what I have been working on and the joy and love that it holds.
“I could tell he was excited for the future, and I was so glad I had that last moment to make him proud in my own little way.”
In her poignant message, Katy expressed,
“We didn’t get to physically say goodbye, but I know he knows how much respect and admiration I have for him, and his hearty chuckles and wicked retorts continue to echo through my mind.”
Martin is survived by his wife Lale Kirkup, daughter Melisa Kirkup Blatt, son John Kirkup, and three grandchildren: Sam, Abigail, and Ivy.
After serving for six years on the judges’ panel, Katy announced on Monday her departure from American Idol. Following the season’s conclusion, the Fireworks singer intends to step away from the show to prioritize her new music.
During an appearance on Jimmy Kimmel Live, Katy elaborated on her decision, stating, “So I think this will probably be my last season for Idol.”
“I love Idol so much. It’s connected me with the heart of America, but I need to feel that pulse of my own beat.
“I love the show so much but I wanna go and see the world and maybe bring new music.”
“Well, you know, this fall, this September, I’m going to be doing this huge music festival in Brazil called Rock in Rio. It’s really exciting,” she added.
“It’s a big deal for people all over the world, especially my Brazilian fans.
“So it’s going to be a very, very exciting year … for all popstar girlies.
“Maybe I’ll come back if they’ll have me one day!”
