Country music fans were shocked when Runaway June announced that Hannah Mulholland was leaving the trio she started with Naomi Cooke and Jennifer Wayne, later revealing they were bringing Natalie Stovall in as her replacement. Naomi and Jennifer are opening up about Hannah’s departure, insisting that there aren’t any hard feelings between the women.
“The pandemic happened, and the world started changing,” Naomi told Taste of Country. “As a lot of people have done, Hannah started to reevaluate what was important to her. And that was being with her family and her husband in California.”
“Jen and I have nothing but love for Hannah,” Naomi continued. “We support that, and we want her to be happy. So there’s no drama here.”
Hannah announced the news on social media, one day before the addition of Natalie was revealed.
“It’s with great respect and love that I must announce my departure from Runaway June,” Hannah wrote. “We have spent 5 years chasing dreams, climbing mountains, conquering things we never imagined possible, and having lots of fun along the way. I am so thankful for the opportunities I have had, and all of the amazing people I have met along the way. Our great team, supportive label, amazing fans, and all of our champions at country radio…You guys have changed my life forever.
“I’ve dreamt these dreams since I was 5 years old, and I feel so fortunate to have gotten these chances and been a part of this incredible journey,” she continued. “I wish everyone continued success and happiness. I hope you will continue to follow my creative endeavors and share in what the future has to hold. It is bittersweet, but I am excited to continue to evolve and grow, while keeping these memories near and dear to my heart. Thank you. Love you all. – Hannah”
Naomi and Jennifer also spoke out about Hannah’s departure in an appearance on the Bobby Bones Show.
“We talked about being a duo and talked about what that meant, and we just really loved the three-part harmony,” Jennifer said. “And also, when we talked about adding a member, if we were going to add a member, we were like, ‘The literal only person we could ever see taking this part is Natalie, because she’s an amazing singer, she’s an amazing musician. Her presence on stage is insane. So we thought about being a duo or having someone that makes us better, and it was a no-brainer.”