Take That Documentary Producer Says Band Has a ‘Beautiful Story to Tell’

The executive producer of an upcoming documentary on the British pop band Take That has shared his aspirations for the film to spotlight their unique success story.

This week, it was revealed that David Soutar, the Bafta-nominated director known for Bros: After the Screaming Stops , will helm a behind-the-scenes documentary for Netflix focusing on one of Britain’s most iconic boybands.

Produced by Gabe Turner from Fulwell 73, the Emmy Award-winning production company, the documentary promises “unprecedented access” to the band members through exclusive interviews. Fans can expect insights from current members Gary Barlow, Howard Donald, and Mark Owen, along with former members Robbie Williams and Jason Orange.

Turner disclosed to The Independent that the creative inspiration partly came from Netflix’s 2023 Wham! documentary, which explored the origins of the pop duo, Andrew Ridgeley’s struggles with fame, and George Michael’s search for identity.

“With so much heavy content focusing on true crime out there, watching the Wham! documentary left everyone feeling great. It was an authentic story about friendship, success, and navigating life,” said Turner.

Take That was formed in 1990 by manager Nigel Martin-Smith, aiming to emulate the success of New Kids on the Block in the US. The original lineup included Gary Barlow, Howard Donald, Jason Orange, Mark Owen, and Robbie Williams.

They gained popularity with hits like Barlow’s ballad “A Million Love Songs” and their 1992 debut album Take That and Party , which reached Number Two on the charts.

The release of their second album Everything Changes in 1994 brought them national fame. Shortlisted for the Mercury Prize, the album featured chart-topping singles such as “Pray” and “Relight My Fire”.

A world tour between 1993 and 1995 catapulted them to international stardom, accompanied by a range of merchandise including posters, stickers, dolls, and clothing.

Robbie Williams left the band in July 1995, and the remaining members disbanded in February 1996.

Take That reformed as a four-piece in 2006, launching a world tour and new music, with hits such as “Patience,” “Shine,” and “Greatest Day.”

Williams rejoined for their acclaimed Progress album and world tour, before he and Orange departed. Since 2014, Barlow, Donald, and Owen have continued as a trio.

Turner finds it fascinating that the band orchestrated a comeback with new songs rather than relying on a “Greatest Hits” tour.

“I can’t think of another band that came out strong, took a break, and then returned with hits as big as their originals. They’ve got an amazing dual-period story, capturing the madness of the Nineties and their impressive comeback,” he remarked.

Turner is a partner at Fulwell, which he formed with his brother Ben, Leo Pearlman, and producer-director Ben Winston. James Corden joined as a partner in 2017.

Fulwell has previously collaborated with Barlow and Take That, including on Barlow’s music videos “Let Me Go” and “Face to Face” with Elton John.

“The band has been great partners for a long time and are open to new ideas,” Turner stated. “Once we proposed the documentary, they loved the idea.

“One remarkable aspect is their comfort in discussing anything. They’re very open and honest, still performing and enjoying themselves. They have a beautiful story to tell.”