When Martin John Kemp, the 63‑year‑old bassist of Spandau Ballet, slipped on a chainsaw accident at his home in Hertfordshire in early October 2024, his son Roman Luke Kemp, a BBC Radio 1 presenter, rushed to the hospital and voiced immediate concerns for his dad’s safety.
What Happened: The Chainsaw Accident
According to a report in HELLO! magazine, Martin was trimming hedges in the garden of the Victorian property the family bought in 2021 when the chainsaw slipped, slicing the tendons in his left hand. The injury was serious enough to require overnight observation at a local NHS hospital, where surgeons stitched the damage and fitted a splint.
Roman, who learned of the mishap via a frantic phone call, later told the outlet, "I’m terrified every time I hear a buzzing sound now – I just don’t want my dad to go through that again." He added, with a wry grin, that his uncle Tom Kemp had warned, "Your mum would be fuming," referring to Shirlie Ruby Kemp, who indeed joked that Martin couldn’t even play guitar with that hand.
Family Renovation Projects and DIY Risks
The accident unfolded amid a massive refurbishment of the family’s countryside retreat. In a November 2023 interview with HELLO! magazine, Shirlie described a never‑ending desire to "change everything," likening the house’s evolving look to a fresh window display at Liberty or Selfridges. She explained that Martin spends most of his days outdoors, mowing, pruning and, apparently, wielding power tools, while she tackles interior make‑overs.
Key projects have included converting a former pig shed into a home office, demolishing a derelict greenhouse that Shirlie once hoped to revive, and installing reclaimed oak flooring throughout the main hall. The DIY ethos is clearly a family affair – Instagram stories show Roman handing tools to his dad, Tom checking measurements, and the whole clan sharing laughs over paint swatches.
Martin Kemp’s Quick Recovery and Upcoming Gig
Despite the severity of the injury, Martin was cleared to perform just weeks later. On Saturday, 18 October 2024, he spun an Ultimate 80s DJ setDe Valence Pavilion in Tenby, Pembrokeshire, Wales. The venue, a historic seaside concert hall, packed out quickly, and fans reported that Martin’s energy was undiminished, even if he kept his left hand close to his body.
"I felt the love from the crowd, and that’s what got me through the rehab," Martin said after the set, adding that the splint was "still a bit stiff, but I’m on the mend." His performance proved that a short break didn’t derail his commitments – a reassuring sign for promoters who’ve booked him for several summer festivals.
Reactions from the Kemp Family
Shirlie, who was at home when the incident occurred, posted on social media, "Never thought a chainsaw could be more dangerous than a stage dive! Please, love, take care of yourself." The post gathered thousands of supportive comments from fellow 80s icons, including former Wham! bandmate George Michael (posthumously referenced) and newer pop stars who thanked Martin for his influence.
Roman’s public concern sparked a broader conversation about celebrity DIY projects. In a follow‑up interview with BBC Radio 1, he said, "We love fixing up our home, but maybe we should leave the heavy‑duty stuff to the pros. I’d rather have my dad playing music than operating a chainsaw." Tom nodded, adding that the family would now hire a professional landscaper for any hedge‑trimming over two metres tall.
Why This Matters: Celebrity DIY Safety
Chainsaw injuries are surprisingly common in the UK – the Health and Safety Executive recorded over 12,000 incidents last year, many involving amateurs. The Kemp saga highlights how even well‑known figures can fall victim to the same risks as anyone else. Their openness may encourage fans to think twice before tackling high‑risk projects without proper training or protective gear.
Moreover, the incident underscores a cultural shift: celebrities are increasingly sharing home‑renovation journeys on Instagram and TikTok, blurring the line between private life and public brand. While the authenticity wins followers, it also spreads potentially hazardous ideas. Experts suggest that influencers include safety warnings whenever they showcase power‑tool usage.
Key Facts
- Martin John Kemp suffered a hand injury in a chainsaw accident on 3 October 2024.
- Roman Luke Kemp expressed immediate safety concerns via HELLO! magazine.
- The family’s Victorian house in Hertfordshire has been under renovation since its 2021 purchase.
- Martin recovered enough to headline the Ultimate 80s DJ set at De Valence Pavilion on 18 October 2024.
- Experts warn that DIY power‑tool misuse leads to over 12,000 UK injuries annually.
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly caused Martin Kemp’s injury?
While trimming hedges in his Hertfordshire garden, the chainsaw slipped and sliced the tendons in Martin’s left hand, requiring stitches and a splint at a local NHS hospital.
Did the accident affect his scheduled performances?
He missed a few low‑key gigs during his short recovery but was cleared in time to deliver his Ultimate 80s DJ set at De Valence Pavilion on 18 October 2024, much to fans’ delight.
How have the Kemp family’s renovation plans changed after the incident?
Shirlie said they’ll now hire professional contractors for high‑risk tasks like hedge trimming and heavy demolition, keeping Martin’s DIY hobby limited to lighter projects.
Why is this story significant beyond celebrity gossip?
The incident shines a light on the broader issue of DIY safety in the UK, where over 12,000 people are injured each year due to improper use of power tools. A high‑profile case can promote safer practices among fans and the general public.
What future projects are the Kemps planning?
They continue to promote their memoir "It's A Love Story," and are slated to release a follow‑up podcast episode later this year where they discuss the aftermath of the accident and lessons learned.
