If only Victoria Beckham could have been as honest as Take That star Gary Barlow. The new Netflix documentary on the iconic British boyband delivers a refreshingly candid look at one of pop music's most enduring and turbulent careers, setting a high bar for celebrity retrospectives.
A Journey Through Grief and Triumph
For many fans, Take That's initial disbandment in 1996 was a formative experience of loss. The public mourning that followed left a lasting impression, with the band's farewell announcement still evoking raw emotions decades later. In 2004, the group reunited for an ITV documentary intended as a one-off healing session, but few could have predicted the remarkable resurgence that would follow.
Two Decades of Evolution and Success
Over the past twenty years, Take That has not only endured but thrived, achieving feats that have delighted millions of once-heartbroken supporters. They have sold out stadium tours, released five additional number-one albums, and even managed to reconcile with Robbie Williams, despite his previous public criticisms and solo superstardom. The band has navigated various formations, from a quartet to a quintet, and now operates as a trio featuring Gary Barlow, Mark Owen, and Howard Donald—their longest-lasting lineup since inception.
Netflix's Unflinching Honesty
Netflix's three-part documentary delves deep into the band's chaotic history, offering a stark contrast to last year's heavily guarded Victoria Beckham series. While Beckham's show felt like a promotional tool for her fashion brand, Take That embraces discomfort and transparency. The band members, particularly Gary Barlow, openly address past conflicts, including accusations of fostering weight complexes and uneven royalty splits.
Gary reflects on his early dominance in the group, admitting, 'When I joined the band, I didn’t really need anyone.' Formed around his songwriting talents, Take That was always perceived as a stepping stone for Barlow, while for others, it represented the ultimate destination.
Notable Absences and Omissions
The documentary primarily features the current trio's perspectives, viewed through a 2026 lens. Robbie Williams is absent, having extensively shared his story elsewhere, but Jason Orange's departure remains a poignant gap. His complete withdrawal from the band and lack of contact is acknowledged, yet frustratingly underexplored, representing a significant omission in an otherwise thorough series.
Chapters of Rise, Fall, and Redemption
The series is structured into three distinct parts. The first chronicles Take That's meteoric rise under manager Nigel Martin-Smith, who sexualised their image and cultivated an early fanbase in gay clubs. It highlights the inherent tension between Gary's star potential and the other members' roles.
Part two focuses on Robbie Williams' exit and the ensuing tabloid feud, detailing how the remaining members were sidelined by the industry as Robbie achieved historic success. This section, while familiar to dedicated fans, is rendered deeply affecting through unseen footage and heartfelt reflections.
The Triumphant Comeback
The final chapter celebrates Take That's unparalleled comeback, a story of resilience that has been underappreciated. Their 2005 return, marked by the hit single Patience, not only reclaimed their fanbase but also earned them newfound credibility. Today, they stand as one of the most successful touring acts of the 21st century, continuing to produce critically acclaimed music.
Legacy and Lessons in Forgiveness
Despite their manufactured origins, Take That has transcended the boyband stereotype. Gary Barlow is now revered as a legendary songwriter, yet the documentary underscores that the band's sustained success stems from each member finding their voice and supporting one another. Ultimately, the series is a profound exploration of forgiveness, humility, and personal growth, offering fresh insights and nostalgia for even the most knowledgeable fans.
Take That is currently available for streaming on Netflix, providing an unmissable deep dive into the heart of British pop culture.
