Jason Orange Spotted in Rare Public Appearance After Documentary Snub
While Robbie Williams' departure from Take That often dominates headlines, the exit of Jason Orange remains a poignant chapter in the band's history. Orange left the iconic boyband in 2014 to embrace a quieter life, leaving Gary Barlow, Howard Donald, and Mark Owen to continue as a trio. Now 55, Jason has largely retreated from public view, maintaining minimal contact with his former bandmates and avoiding media attention.
Documentary Absence and Recent Sighting
Despite expectations that he might participate in the recent Netflix documentary chronicling Take That's 35-year journey, Jason Orange declined to appear. The documentary features extensive archive footage and new interviews with the remaining members, but Jason's absence is notably felt. Following the documentary's release, Orange was recently spotted during a rare outing in Hale Village, Cheshire.
He was seen wearing a knee-length black DryRobe with the hood up, complemented by black sunglasses, making no gestures toward cameras or onlookers. This marked an even more concealed appearance compared to sightings months earlier when he wore a beanie hat and long brown coat but left his face visible.
Bandmates Reflect on Jason's Departure
Mark Owen previously addressed Jason's exit in an interview with The Times, stating, "I think [Jason] felt like he didn't want to do it anymore, but I'm not going to speak for him." He added warmly, "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."
Gary Barlow, when questioned by The Mirror about Jason's relationship with the band, remarked they "need to ask him" why he wasn't interested in returning. He emphasized, "But the door's always open. For everyone. Robbie included. We're a three-piece at the moment, but I'd never say never. Because this band always surprises me. But not on this particular occasion."
In 2023, Barlow revealed to The Sun that communication with Jason is sporadic, sometimes via "no reply" emails. He reflected, "It's a tricky one with Jay. I almost think if there had been a big argument, it would be easier, but there wasn't. He just wanted a change in his life. But he does keep an eye on us. And it's nice to know that."
Life After Take That
Since leaving the band, Jason Orange has abandoned singing and dancing for a career in property. He co-owns Nine The Firs, a property business, with Celtic football legend Neil Lennon, whom he met years ago during a charity match. There are no indications that Jason plans to return to the entertainment industry, seemingly content with his low-profile professional life.
Upon his departure in 2014, Jason expressed 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 bandmates, who I feel are like brothers to me." This followed Robbie Williams' earlier exit, marking another significant moment for Take That fans.
The Netflix documentary delves into the band's highs and lows over three and a half decades, featuring unseen clips and fresh interviews. While Jason appears in archival material, his current absence underscores the enduring impact of his decision to step away from the spotlight.
