But not, they insist, forever. Despite confirming everyone's worst fears that Atomic Kitten will be taking a break, a spokesperson denied reports that they are splitting permanently.
The decision comes after Natasha Hamilton said the pressures of pop stardom meant she could not spend enough time with her young son. Since giving birth to Josh in August 2002, she has found that band commitments have kept her away from him.
In that period alone, the band released two albums and six singles, as well as promoting them around the world. "I've not really had a moment to be with him consistently and properly since he was born", Natasha said.
"I knew that the time would come when I'd need to take time out and luckily the band's in great shape following a brilliant autumn and I have wonderful mates in Jen and Liz, at my management company and at Innocent Records who support me completely".
The record company stated that Natasha is taking a "well-earned break" as a result.
Though the two other band members, Jenny and Liz, are considering solo singles and collaborations during the break, their record company insist this is not the end of Atomic Kitten.
It is though, they admit, "the end of this era". Once the single Someone Like Me has come out and their current tour has finished in Hull on March 11, the girls will release a collection of their greatest hits. The disc will feature 14 hit singles and "a few surprises".
'KS'