The latest music from The 1975 has taken a new direction, according to frontman Matty Healy‘s mother, actress Denise Welch. During her appearance at the Virgin Atlantic Attitude Awards on October 8, 2025, Welch shared her excitement about the band’s upcoming material. She described the new songs as “fabulous” and acknowledged that while they are “very different,” they retain “the DNA of The 1975.”
Welch’s comments provide a glimpse into the band’s evolution since their last studio album, Being Funny in a Foreign Language, released in 2022. The anticipation surrounding the new music reflects the band’s commitment to artistic growth and innovation.
In a light-hearted moment, Welch also discussed her unconventional role as a caretaker for Healy’s pet rat, Splinters. She shared, “I’m a grandmother to a rat,” revealing that she has taken on this responsibility whenever Healy is on tour. Previously, there were two pet rats, with one named Bobby Robson, who has since passed away. “Splinters is still flying the flag,” she added, highlighting her fondness for the creature. Welch noted that the family has a rat-sitter to care for Splinters in their absence.
When asked about Healy’s former relationship with pop superstar Taylor Swift, Welch opted for discretion. “I plead the fifth on anything to do with that!” she stated, signaling her desire to avoid discussing the matter. This reluctance comes after she previously expressed her concerns regarding the media scrutiny surrounding their brief romance after Swift’s split from actor Joe Alwyn in April 2023. Swift later referenced this relationship in her 2024 album, The Tortured Poets Department.
During her previous comments, Welch suggested that the dynamics of celebrity relationships can be challenging. She remarked, “Obviously, on pain of death can I talk about that episode, but being her mother-in-law is a role that I am glad I lost.” Despite her past criticisms of Swift, she emphasized that she holds no ill will towards the singer.
As The 1975 prepares to unveil their new music, fans and industry observers alike are eager to see how these changes will resonate. The blend of Welch’s insights and the band’s artistic journey signals an exciting chapter ahead for both the group and its devoted audience.
