18 July 2025 — Leave it to Prince to make even a covert moment feel like a theatrical performance.
According to singer and actress Nicole Scherzinger, the late music icon once went full stealth mode — hiding behind a bush in broad daylight just to get her attention, all while dressed to the nines in shoulder pads and heels.
“We hear a ‘psst, psst!’ And I’ll be damned — Prince was hiding behind the bush trying to get my attention. I don’t know why!” Nicole laughed as she recounted the hilarious moment during her appearance on Hot Ones.
Nicole explained that she and her girlfriends had flown to Las Vegas to catch one of Prince’s shows, soaking up the sun by the pool before the performance. That’s when the bush started rustling — and out popped Prince in full glam mode at noon, like it was no big deal.
“Fully dressed, looked amazing. Just Prince-ing it up, heels and all,” she added.
More Than a Friend — A True Mentor
Beyond the laugh-out-loud moment, Nicole spoke with deep affection for the Purple Rain singer, describing him as both a friend and mentor who had a lasting impact on her career — especially in theatre.
She recalled the time Prince attended her 2014 performance in the West End revival of Cats and gave her a powerful piece of advice.
“He was like, ‘You are an analog singer — not a digital singer. Your voice is too big. You need to do music that’s big enough for your voice. And this is your stage, Nicole.’”
Nicole, now a Tony Award-winning star, credits Prince’s encouragement as a turning point in her theatrical journey.
“I wouldn’t be here, Sean, without him,” she said.
A Legacy That Lives On
When Prince passed away in 2016 at age 57 due to an accidental overdose, Nicole paid heartfelt tribute to him, calling him “the most phenomenal human I’ve ever been blessed to know.”
“Though you are no longer with us, your legacy remains forever,” she wrote in a touching statement, describing him as more than a music legend — but a brother, mentor, and inspiration.
From hiding in bushes in couture to giving soul-stirring career advice, Prince’s legacy is equal parts mystery, magic, and mentorship — and Nicole’s story just adds another gem to the legend.
