Gary Barlow has teased that Take That will make a series of "big band announcements" before the end of 2026, including new live gigs in Europe. The band's tenth studio album is also "imminent", following the release of their latest single Sweet July.
Fans sent into a frenzy
Speaking on his official social media accounts on Friday afternoon, Gary said: "One of the wonderful things about getting some time off is getting lots of chance for some clear headspace, time to think and of course time to plan. I've got some big announcements coming before the end of the year and I'm going to tease a few of them now."
The current trio lineup of Gary, Howard Donald and Mark Owen finished their live reboot of the Circus Live tour last month, following rave reviews from critics and fans alike. It was a memorable summer of stadium gigs across the U.K., including four huge homecoming shows at Manchester's Etihad Stadium.
New album 'imminent'
Gary outlined the plans for the band's 10th studio album, saying the release is "imminent". He said of the album: "It's poppy it's fresh it feels really good. I feel we've caught a little wave here. Always tricky to make albums but I feel like at the eleventh hour it's really come together and I'm very excited about the music I really am."
He added: "I know you've heard two songs but I can't wait for you to hear the other ten so that's coming up it's imminent."
European tour dates
Gary went on to confirm: "We are going to be hitting parts of Europe at the end of August with a few band announcements and we're very excited and that obviously heads in to next year."
He added: "We've got some big news coming for our European fans. We hate the fact you feel like an afterthought because you've been there for us for 30 odd years and we really appreciate it when you come to see us. So we are coming to you. We've got a big announcement for our European fans which is going to be excellent."
He also detailed that his solo theatre show, A Different Stage, will be coming back in some form in 2027. The initial theatre run in 2022 won high praise from fans and critics, and saw Gary telling his life story in confessional style. He has also teased an entirely new project with "a good friend".
He said: "I've also got some plans for a Different Stage for next year they will be announced before the end of the year and also a new project something completely brand new; an area I've never been in before. A project I'm going to be taking on with a friend of mine that will be announced that's a big one for me, not only is it brand new it changes what my year looks like in terms of travel and there's a few restrictions for me if we launch this and it's successful."
He added: "It's taken some thought and it's taken some planning but it's something I'm really excited about." He ended by saying: "Enough teasing I'm going to see you all very soon out there in Europe."
Fan speculation
The news sent fans into a frenzy on Friday afternoon as speculation began about the exact locations of upcoming tour dates. Debbie van den broek said: "Come to the Netherlands! I have traveled to Manchester last June for the Circus and it was absolutely amazing. But it would be great if you come to the Netherlands."
Trish Smyth said: "Please come to Spain. I travelled to Manchester to see a circus show and it was absolutely amazing. Loved it." Cindy Collins added: "Please come to France !!! I've come over twice to see you in Southampton! Glad you've had a good rest and recharge ! Can't wait for TT 10!!!!!"
Christine Charlton hopefully asked: "Are u doing Uk again Gary so we can get saving money." Echoing the feelings of many UK fans, Ruth Nicol said: "Have passport, will travel Mr B!"
