For 35 years, Take That has captivated audiences, and now, a new Netflix series peels back the layers of their extraordinary journey. It’s a raw, unflinching look at the band’s triumphs and tribulations, a story told with a level of honesty rarely seen in music documentaries.
The series doesn’t shy away from difficult truths. Members confront each other, and the industry, with long-held grievances. But at the heart of it all is Gary Barlow’s remarkable willingness to confront his own past actions and their impact on his bandmates.
He openly acknowledges moments where he stifled Robbie Williams’ confidence, dismissing his aspirations as a songwriter and even resorting to hurtful comments about his weight. “I called him Blobbie instead of Robbie one day, which I hold my hands up, I shouldn’t have done,” he admits, a stark confession of past mistakes.
The band reflects on a history often debated, admitting there were times when a gentler approach might have been wiser. “We could have been less honest,” Gary reflects, a hint of vulnerability in his voice. “But it wasn’t an easy watch. They’re not meant to be, and I do believe it tells a nice, true and honest story.”
Fans will be treated to an unprecedented glimpse behind the curtain, with a wealth of previously unseen footage from the band’s early days, their dramatic split, and their incredible resurgence. It’s a deep dive into the archives, revealing moments never before shared with the public.
Mark Owen describes the project as a long-awaited opportunity to document the complete narrative. “It’s the first time someone wanted to put all of it down,” he explains. “We’ve moved on, but seeing footage from after ‘Progress’ and then 15 years later, arguing about cauliflower cheese… it hit me. We’re old! But what a journey.”
The documentary’s power lies in its unfiltered approach, a deliberate choice by the filmmakers. Executive producer Gabe Turner emphasizes the importance of authenticity, a quality increasingly rare in today’s promotional landscape. This isn’t a glossy advertisement; it’s a story of resilience, forgiveness, and the enduring power of a band that refused to fade away.
The band’s long-standing trust in the production team was crucial. They were given creative freedom, allowing the filmmakers to explore every facet of their story without restriction. “They just completely handed us the keys,” Turner says. “There was no times where they went, ‘Oh, can you not do this?’ It was just, ‘This is the story, ask us what you want and we’ll tell you everything.’”
Ultimately, the series is a testament to Take That’s enduring legacy – a story not just about chart-topping hits and sold-out stadiums, but about the complex relationships, personal struggles, and unwavering determination that have defined their remarkable 35-year journey.
