“In a decade’s time,” reflects Jack Donaghy from 30 Rock as he observes his assistant Kenneth returning to his desk, “we might all be working for him or possibly face dire consequences.” This sentiment resonates with me regarding Katie Price, known as Jordan, who has transformed from a 90s glamour model into a multifaceted celebrity, entrepreneur, and cultural icon over the past 30 years. Her relentless self-marketing, immense ambition, financial successes and failures, and the challenges she has overcome paint a picture that is both intriguing and unsettling. Price’s ability to withstand adversity that would have incapacitated many is remarkable, characterized by her fierce demeanor, sharp intelligence, and an unsettling ability to confront any camera lens. Yet, beneath this tough exterior lies an unexpected fragility, particularly in her relationships with men, creating a complex persona that is equally captivating and intimidating. Should she ever decide to expand her influence beyond her current realm, I would be among the first to pledge my allegiance to her.
The most recent documentary focusing on Katie Price is titled *Katie Price: Nothing to Hide*. Since her previous major appearance, the Beckhams have produced their own documentaries, and other celebrities like the Vardys and Coleen Rooney are rising in prominence, prompting a reestablishment of the social hierarchy. In this new film, Price is seen lounging on a large sofa, either vaping or snacking, her striking veneers on display, dressed in an oversized sweatshirt and pants, just days after undergoing facial surgery, proclaiming her commitment to honesty. “Feel free to speak with anyone you like,” she tells filmmaker Paddy Wivell, who typically explores non-celebrity subjects, including his recent focus on humanitarian volunteers in Ukraine.
Wivell conducts interviews with Price’s mother, Amy, who exhibits a captivating blend of unwavering affection, confusion, and anger regarding her daughter’s unconventional life journey, which has evolved from a horse-loving girl to a headline-grabbing figure. Price’s siblings and former partners also provide insights, including her first boyfriend, Gary Bolingbroke. The narrative subtly suggests that Price maintains control over the content presented in the film.
Dane Bowers, Price’s first notable partner, shares his perspective, admitting, “I was known as quite the lover of breasts back then.” Gareth Gates reflects on their relationship, which garnered media attention when Price claimed that losing his virginity to her helped alleviate his stutter. However, neither Dwight Yorke, who parted ways with Price while she was pregnant with their son Harvey, nor Peter Andre, her most publicized relationship, make appearances in the documentary.
Price remains forthright throughout the film. She chose not to become Hugh Hefner’s girlfriend after her Playboy cover in 2001, likening the experience to being intimate with her grandfather and expressing surprise at the youthful appearance of Hefner’s anatomy compared to other women who participated. She recounts visits to an abortion clinic during her pregnancies but ultimately decided against terminating the pregnancies, arguing that her partner’s wishes should not dictate her choices. While she acknowledges that some breakups and media scrutiny have been painful, she claims, “Being myself, I’ve always had the capacity to just move on.”
Yet, while Price’s openness is notable, it lacks deeper reflection or context. Wivell does not provide a broader understanding of her life choices within the framework of the pervasive misogyny she has encountered, nor do her family and friends delve into more profound insights beyond acknowledging her strength and softer side.
The documentary remains a carefully crafted portrayal that lacks introspection, much like any other product associated with the Price brand. Has Price ever considered what her life might look like had she not been regarded as beautiful or sexy? What if plastic surgery were not an option? How might she have redirected her ambition? If she had pursued a different path, what would her role be? Does she regret not allowing her intellect to guide her interactions with men more judiciously? Is she capable of doing so now? Can she envision sustaining her current lifestyle for another 30 years? The documentary offers no answers, reflecting Price’s reluctance to engage in such contemplation.
*Katie Price: Nothing to Hide* premiered on Sky Documentaries and is available for streaming on Now.
