Photo: Splash
Jason Orange has left Take That and will not be recording another new album with the band.
The singer announced his decision to quit after 24 years with the band. Orange confirmed the news in a statement on the group's website (which promptly crashed):
"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"
Remaining bandmates Gary Barlow, Mark Owen and Howard Donald have expressed sadness at his departure calling it a "huge loss both professionally and even more so personally".
The band originally formed in 1990 but split up in 1996 but four of the five founding members reformed successfully in 2005. Robbie Williams, rejoined briefly in 2010.
Orange added: "I know how much Mark, Gary and Howard enjoy writing and making music. They know that they have my full support and encouragement to continue on with what is to be another chapter for the band."
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