Bad news, guys. Jason Orange has quit Take That. :(
It's like 1996 all over again.
Gary Barlow announced the news through Twitter this evening.
Hi everyone, if you haven’t heard our sad news - http://t.co/p2yMZAVh8Z
While Jason explained on their website that he no longer wishes to continue in the band, he emphasised there are no bad feelings.
I want to start by saying how proud I am of what we have achieved together over the years. However, at a band meeting last week I confirmed to Mark, Gary and Howard that I do not wish to commit to recording and promoting a new album. I have spent some of the best years of my life with Take That and I'd like to thank everyone who has been a part of my journey, including my band mates, who I feel are like brothers to me. Most especially my gratitude goes to all of the good and kind, beautiful and ever-loyal fans of the band, without whom none of this could have been possible. Thank you.At the end of The Progress Tour I began to question whether it might be the right time for me to not continue on with Take That. At the start of this year and with my full knowledge and blessing the guys began writing new material. There have been no fallings out, only a decision on my part that I no longer wish to do this. I know how much Mark, Gary and Howard enjoy writing and making music, and they know that they have my full support and encouragement to continue on with what is to be another chapter for the band.
This is a sad day for us. Jason leaving is a huge loss both professionally and even more so personally. We first became aware of Jason's reservations a couple of years ago but had hoped that by giving him the desired time and space he may begin to feel differently. This has not been the case and we now have to accept and fully respect his decision which we know hasn't been an easy one. Jason's energy and belief in what this band could achieve has made it what it is today, and we'll forever be grateful for his enthusiasm, dedication and inspiration over the years.Mark, Gary and Howard
And fans were quick to express their sadness online.
Jason Orange is quitting @takethat. It's like 1996 all over again. What's the hotline number? :(
Totally gutted Jason orange has left take that..as a massive fan he'll be missed so much..good luck to him :-(
Jason orange leaving take that??The fact that it's so unexpected makes it much harder to take! Wooden boat on repeat! #byejason #takethat
All the thirty something women gonna a be clamouring for the helplines all over again now jason orange has left take that #notrobbiewilliams
Although there were of course the inevitable jokes thrown in.
Just try and have a little patience with all the jokes about Jason Orange. Pray they'll be over soon. It only takes a minute to ignore them
With Jason Orange gone, have Take That lost their appeel?
Blow for David Cameron as Jason Orange quits Take That. If only there was some way to stop the Tories for good.
Jason Orange... He was the only member of take that who wasn't fiddling his taxes, right? And he's quit now? Good for him.
The feels. :(
