Rick Astley Reveals What He’s Most Proud Of – And It’s Not The Music

October 20, 2025

In a recent interview on The High Performance Podcast, hosted by Jake Humphrey and Prof. Damian Hughes, Rick Astley offered a rare glimpse into life behind the fame.

The podcast promises to “turn the lived experiences of the planet’s highest performers into your life lessons,” and this episode certainly delivered.

Rick Astley on the High Performance Podcast

We all know Rick Astley as the voice behind the 80s mega-hit “Never Gonna Give You Up”, a song that found a second life in the 2000s thanks to the legendary “Rickroll” internet meme. But at the height of his global stardom, Rick made a life-changing decision: he stepped away from fame.

In this deeply honest conversation, Rick opens up about why leaving the spotlight was necessary to reconnect with himself. He talks about the pressures of fame, the challenges of constant public attention, and the struggle to maintain authenticity amidst the whirlwind of celebrity life.

But the most powerful moment comes near the end of the interview, when he is asked one final question: “What are you most proud of?”

Rick’s answer is simple, yet deeply moving:

“I’m most proud of our daughter.”

When the hosts ask why, Rick takes a pause, tears welling in his eyes, before explaining:

“I think because despite everything that I feel and I’ve been through and done, and everything… and my wife, obviously... she’s pretty (expletive) solid and talented and amazing… yeah, that’s what I’m most proud of. The music’s a nonsense. It’s a lovely nonsense, but it’s a nonsense.”

This heartfelt moment reminds us that behind the music and the fame, Rick Astley’s true pride and joy comes from his family. It’s a powerful reminder that personal fulfillment often lies not in fame or success, but in the love and connections we nurture in our own lives.

You can watch the clip below: