Biografia
There is a well-known saying in show business: "The Show Must Go On." Paul Hester did his best to live by this motto, but unfortunately, he could not overcome his personal struggles, and the show came to an end. Always smiling outwardly, Hester, as an eight-year-old, wrote in his journal about his dream of becoming a famous drummer in a successful band. He reached that dream but learned painfully that life held more than just money and fame.
When Hester joined Split Enz in their final years in 1983, he felt on top of the world. Known for his quirky nature, joining a band celebrated for its eccentricity seemed ideal for the young, spiky-haired drum prodigy. He became famous for his lively stage antics and playful behavior, consistently delivering entertaining performances. However, when Split Enz disbanded soon after his arrival, he was heartbroken. With no platform to showcase his talent, he explored film roles, including a small part in Tim Finn’s "The Coca Cola Kid," but his true passion remained on stage.
When Neil Finn invited him to join Crowded House as their drummer, Hester was thrilled, seeing it as his opportunity to truly shine in a smaller three-member band. Yet, the stress of their 1993 tour affected him deeply. He grew sarcastic and withdrawn, answering interviews with abruptness, a stark contrast to his previous quirky self. Eventually, overwhelmed, he left the band.
After departing Crowded House, it seemed Hester might turn his life around. He married, had two children, and became a popular TV personality, but this was only a facade. His true love was music, and he returned to drumming by forming the band Tarmac Adam with Nick Seymour. By 2003, it appeared he had overcome his struggles and was living a stable life, but the lifelong depression remained.
Tragically, in early 2005, Hester’s battle with depression ended when he took his own life. While it might be easy to say he never conquered his demons, Paul Hester achieved his dreams and lived a brief but remarkable life.
