Robbie Williams has strongly hinted that a future reunion with his former bandmates in Take That is inevitable, stating he is 'sure' the group will 'ride again'. The comments come as the iconic pop group prepares to revive their record-breaking The Circus Live tour for 2026.
Nostalgia for a Spectacular Show
In a recent interview, Williams reflected fondly on Take That's decision to recreate their acclaimed 2009 tour. He recalled being utterly captivated when Gary Barlow showed him footage of the original Circus Live production years ago at his Los Angeles home. 'I just stood – literally stood, didn't sit – and watched it spellbound,' Williams said. He praised the show as 'one of the best shows ever' and admitted it once made him think, 'I want back in.'
The singer, who originally left the band in 1995 before a hugely successful solo career, has reunited with them before. He rejoined for the 2010 album 'Progress' and its tour, and performed with Barlow, Mark Owen, and Howard Donald on The X Factor in 2018. Original member Jason Orange, who left in 2014, will not be part of the upcoming 2026 shows.
No Immediate Plans, But Hope for the Future
When directly asked if he would join Take That for the Circus Live revival next summer, Williams was clear that it is not on his current agenda. 'Not right now. I'm sure we will ride again, but it's not in my plans right now,' he stated. The band's confirmed lineup for the tour consists of the trio of Gary Barlow, Mark Owen, and Howard Donald.
The announcement of the tour has also inspired Williams to consider reviving one of his own legendary performances. He teased the possibility of restaging his record-breaking three-night run at Knebworth Park in 2003, saying, 'Maybe I'll do the Knebworth show.'
Solo Ventures and Mended Fences
Robbie Williams has a packed solo schedule ahead. He is preparing to release his new album, 'BRITPOP', on February 6, and will embark on a series of intimate UK dates called The Long '90s Tour, including a show at London's O2 Brixton Academy on February 8.
Notably, his upcoming album features a track co-written with Gary Barlow called 'Morrissey', inspired by a stalker of the former Smiths frontman. Williams also reflected on his historically turbulent relationship with Barlow, admitting there was a time he 'f****** hated' him, highlighting how their professional and personal bond has evolved over the decades.