Take That have opened up about their history and future plans in a chat with Nicki Chapman on her Pop Idols podcast.
Gary Barlow, Howard Donald and Mark Owen joined Nicki for the latest episode of the series, as interest continues around the group’s new Netflix documentary.
Nicki, who worked as the band’s publicist during their early success, spoke to the trio about the origins of Take That, key turning points in their career and their enduring bond after decades together.
During the conversation, the band revealed that Madonna indirectly influenced their name, while the discussion also moved into emotional territory as they reflected on major lineup changes.
Howard spoke candidly about the impact of the band splitting during the mid-90s, describing how sudden the change felt after years of intense touring and promotion schedules.
He said: “Working full on for six years and then all of a sudden it stops. I spent a lot of depressing mornings watching This Morning.”
Howard also discussed Robbie Williams leaving the group, explaining that members initially believed he would return, before later facing another difficult moment when Jason Orange stepped away from the band.
He said: “We thought he was going to be back, we never knew it was for good really. Robbie was a young boy when he left, and you didn’t think about where his head was at. Losing Jason was a tough time for the three of us. I feel like he’d had enough of the fame.”
Gary reflected on the band’s successful reunion, which followed the 2005 TV documentary Take That: For The Record, admitting the group were nervous about how they would be portrayed publicly.
He said: “We were all scared to death and convinced that ITV were trying to stitch us up. I never really felt like I was in a band in the 90s, but when we got back together, I never needed these guys more.”
Mark added his perspective on the band’s changes, praising former members for making difficult personal decisions while highlighting how unpredictable life in the music industry can feel.
He said: “I think Rob and Jason made brave decisions. We still think it could end tomorrow and we go back to the day job.”
The interview also offered fans an update on Take That’s future, with Gary confirming the group have been working on new material for around a year and are hoping to release a new record later this year.
The appearance forms part of Magic Radio’s Pop Idols podcast, which focuses on conversations with major music figures reflecting on careers, creative challenges and personal experiences behind global chart success.
You can watch the full conversation with Take That speaking on Nicki Chapman’s Pop Idols for Magic Radio on YouTube or listen via Rayo.
