Carmit Bachar, a founding member of the Pussycat Dolls, is embarking on a new chapter in her career with several projects in the works. Speaking exclusively to PEOPLE at the Rookie Kids Fashion Show on September 26, Bachar, 50, shared that she is currently focused on multiple endeavors, including a memoir that is approximately one-third complete.
“Right now, I’m working on a couple different projects,” Bachar said. “Of course, new music is coming. I’m working on a book, and I’m aiming for Broadway. That’s been my next goalpost, so I’m excited.”
While the memoir will include insights from her time with the internationally acclaimed girl group, Bachar emphasizes that it will also cover a broader range of experiences in her life. Notably, she plans to highlight her advocacy for children with cleft palates, a cause that is close to her heart.
Bachar explained, “I guess people could say that,” in response to whether her book would delve into her experiences with the Pussycat Dolls. “I mean, it’s reality. It’s real.” She added, “It will be my experience, and my life is not just the Pussycat Dolls. It’s a chunk of it, but it’s not my entire experience. I was born with a cleft palate. I’m the ambassador for Operation Smile. And yes, I’ve been through this entire journey of life and the industry, and to persevere and come out smiling is what the book’s about.”
In 2008, Bachar made headlines when she became the first founding member of the Pussycat Dolls to leave the group. Despite her departure, she was involved in the group’s reunion in 2010, which included the release of their single “React.” However, plans for a tour were ultimately delayed by the pandemic and later scrapped due to a lawsuit involving fellow member Nicole Scherzinger and the group’s founder, Robin Antin.
Bachar’s candid reflections extend beyond her career in music. During her conversation with PEOPLE, she discussed the importance of surrounding herself with positive influences. “I made a decision to excommunicate people that were toxic for my life,” she noted. Currently, she primarily stays in touch with former bandmate Jessica Sutta.
“It’s unfortunate that this industry breeds narcissists, and it feeds that monster, the fame game, the whole thing. I think it changes people,” she said. “Hopefully, as you grow older, you become wiser and do the work. But if you don’t do the work, then you can’t actually evolve.”
ADVERTISEMENT
Bachar acknowledged the complexities of relationships within the entertainment industry. “Everybody’s definitely in a different place in their life at different times. We have what we accomplished, and I will always cherish that and be proud of that. The moments we had on stage were great and fun, and I choose to remember those,” she said.
In addition to her professional pursuits, Bachar has been open about her journey as a parent. She frequently shares insights on social media about raising her daughter, Keala, 13, alongside her husband, actor Kevin Whitaker. This time, she is also supporting Keala as she steps into the spotlight to participate in the Rookie Kids Fashion Show.
“As a Pussycat Doll, I’ve been through the ringer in the industry, and I make sure that we seek out the right projects. It’s not about quantity; it’s about quality,” Bachar said, referring to her daughter’s burgeoning career in entertainment. “She did her first print job when she was six months old. She barely was sitting up. So, she’s been through a lot of things, but also not everything. We’ve been very selective about the projects she’s involved in, ensuring she has a real childhood experience, not just being in the industry.”
Looking ahead, Bachar expressed her hope to finish her memoir by next year, with plans to record her own audiobook to accompany the release. “It’ll be fun,” she teased, hinting at the excitement surrounding her upcoming projects.
As Bachar embarks on this new journey, fans eagerly await not only her memoir but also her new music and potential Broadway debut. With her rich experiences in the music industry and her dedication to advocacy, she is sure to offer a compelling narrative that resonates with many.
ADVERTISEMENT
