Why did Jason Orange leave Take That?
FANS of Take That were left heartbroken when Jason Orange just suddenly left the band in 2014.
Ever since the singer’s shock departure, the boyband’s loyal followers have wanted to know the REAL reason he left the group.
Why did Jason Orange leave Take That?
In September 2014 Jason Orange announced that he would be leaving Take That after more than 20 years with the band.
He joined the group in 1990 as part of the original five-piece line-up, alongside Gary Barlow, Howard Donald, Robbie Williams, and Mark Owen.
Robbie left the group in 1995, and the band split the following year in 1996.
However, they then reformed as a four piece in 2005, with Jason firmly part of the fixture.
So it came as a shock to fans when almost a decade later, he announced he was off.
It was such a surprise as there had been no indication that he was considering leaving the group – with Jason and the band assuring fans that there was no ill will between them.
Then in an interview in June 2023, Take That gave more of an insight into why the popular band member suddenly quit.
Speaking to The Times, Mark Owen said: “I think [Jason] felt like he didn’t want to do it any more.
Before adding: “But I’m not going to speak for him.”
Mark then went onto talk about how much they miss him, telling the newspaper: “He’s still here anyway.
“The other day we were trying to work out who the best joke-teller in the band is and remembered how Jason always laughed before he got to the punchline.”
What did Jason Orange say about leaving Take That?
At the time of his departure in 2014, Jason said in a statement: “I want to start by saying how proud I am of what we have achieved together over the years.
“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.”
He added that he simply no longer wished to be in the band anymore or dedicate his time to touring the world and writing new material.
The remaining members of the band revealed at the time that they had been aware of his feelings for a few years and that they “fully respected” his decision to leave.
Jason has never spoken on the subject since and the band have made it clear that there is no chance of him returning.
In June 2023, Howard Donald told press at the premiere of the Take That film Greatest day, that he didn’t think his former bandmate would ever come back.
Asked if the group will ever be a five piece again, he said: “Five of us Oh there’s only three of us now!
“I don’t think Jason ever, maybe possibly Robbie, but not Jason I don’t think.”
Where is Jason Orange now?
What Jason is up to now, is the million dollar question.
After leaving the band he vanished from public life, and “went off the grid”, according to Howard.
However, over the years there have been a couple of rare sightings of Jason in public.
He was spotted in Hale, Manchester, in March 2018 and at a hotel in the city that December.
That same year, fans went into meltdown when Howard tweeted about reuniting with Jason.
His post read: “Just bumped into Mr Orange And he looks as handsome as he ever did! Quick chat as I had both kids with me. 1st time he’s ever seen them. #goodtimes.”
Jason also left the band with a sizeable bank balance, thanks to his time as a member of Take That.
The singer is living very comfortably on his £23M fortune.
Meanwhile, as a three piece Take That have continued touring and making new music, performing occasionally alongside former member Robbie.