Stevie Nicks Shares the Key Decision That Nearly Derailed Fleetwood Mac

Stevie Nicks recently opened up about a pivotal moment in her life from the late 70s that could have drastically changed Fleetwood Mac’s trajectory.

In an interview on CBS News Sunday Morning on October 27, Nicks discussed her abortion in 1979 and how her choice potentially saved the band from turmoil. Reflecting on her relationship with Don Henley of the Eagles, she expressed her surprise at becoming pregnant despite taking precautions like using an IUD.

“I got pregnant and thought, ‘How is this happening? I have an IUD,'” the 76-year-old singer shared. At that time, Fleetwood Mac was soaring to popularity and preparing for their third album. “Fleetwood Mac is three years in, and it’s big,” she emphasized, noting that motherhood could have “destroyed Fleetwood Mac.” Facing an unexpected child would have been overwhelming for her, especially after her split with guitarist Lindsey Buckingham. “It would’ve been a nightmare scenario for me,” she admitted.

Stevie Nicks

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Fans flooded the comments of a YouTube clip to support Nicks, praising her bravery. One user remarked, “She is a national treasure. Thanks for sharing your truth, Stevie.” Another added, “It’s so important for these personal stories to be told.”

Nicks has previously noted how her abortion influenced Fleetwood Mac’s music, particularly the song “Sara” from 1979. In a 2014 chat with Billboard, she remarked, “Had I married Don and had that baby… I would have named her Sara.” Henley actually revealed Nicks’ pregnancy to the public during a conversation that she later recounted in an interview with Rolling Stone published on October 24.

Nicks joined Fleetwood Mac in 1975 and contributed to iconic albums such as Rumours and Tusk. Her tumultuous relationship with Buckingham started before their band formed and continued through their rise. After their breakup, Nicks briefly dated Henley. In 1983, she married Kim Anderson, shortly after the death of her close friend Robin Anderson, but realized soon it was not the right choice; the marriage lasted just three months. Nicks remains childless.

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