Behind the Scenes: Take That’s Official Editor Reveals Insights on Jason Orange’s Departure
The editor of the Take That Official fan magazine, Alex Kadis, spent years traveling the globe with the iconic British boy band during the 1990s. She has shared her most memorable moments from that time, offering a unique glimpse into the lives of the band members.
Kadis, who recently published her debut novel Big Nobody, recalls the excitement of fans eagerly awaiting the latest issue of Take That Official, a magazine filled with interviews, posters, and news about the band. Her role as editor allowed her to become a trusted confidante to Gary Barlow, Robbie Williams, Howard Donald, Jason Orange, and Mark Owen.
Kadis first encountered Take That while working as the features editor at Smash Hits. The band was still emerging, and their music video for “Do What U Like” left her and her colleagues puzzled about how to market them. Despite the initial confusion, she recognized the potential of the group.
In June 1992, Kadis participated in a photoshoot with the band at Camber Sands in East Sussex. The day was bright and sunny, and the band members were in high spirits. She noted a unique camaraderie among them that was not commonly seen in pop bands. After the shoot, they celebrated the news that their new single, “It Only Takes A Minute,” was expected to enter the charts at No. 11, jumping up and down in a field of sheep in excitement.
Following her departure from Smash Hits, Kadis was approached by the band’s manager, Nigel Martin-Smith, to edit a monthly magazine dedicated to Take That. Her job involved capturing the essence of the band while maintaining their trust and confidentiality.
Throughout her time with the band, Kadis traveled extensively, gaining insight into their rise to fame and the challenges they faced. One memorable experience occurred during an interview at a Spanish radio station, where the band struggled to navigate through a throng of fans. They had to use connecting doors and tunnels to reach the station, which added an element of thrill to the day.
Kadis recalls a bittersweet memory of the band’s final performance before their initial breakup. They took a boat ride down a canal in Amsterdam, with fans lining the bridges to wave and cheer them on.
Among the band members, Kadis developed a close friendship with Jason Orange. She often spent time at his flat in Manchester, bonding over their shared love for 70s music. Despite his popularity, Orange grappled with feelings of imposter syndrome and struggled to find his identity within the group.
Gary Barlow also stood out for his humor and leadership. He frequently organized outings for the band, showcasing his ability to lighten the mood. While the other members enjoyed downtime, Barlow remained focused on songwriting, driven by his ambition.
Each member of Take That contributed uniquely to the group’s dynamic. Howard Donald was known for his grounded nature, often serving as a confidant for the others. Mark Owen, on the other hand, combined humor with a principled approach, showcasing his talent in the band’s later works.
Kadis also managed Mark Owen as a solo artist after the band’s split. She admired his dedication and work ethic, recognizing the challenges he faced in transitioning from a boy band member to a serious artist. The pressures of fame weighed heavily on all the members, who were still young when they achieved stardom.
Robbie Williams has openly discussed the struggles he faced during his time with the band. Kadis noted that his down-to-earth wisdom made him relatable, yet he often felt the burden of his fame. His departure from the group was marked by a desire for freedom, reflecting the complexities of growing up in the public eye.
In 2005, Kadis learned about the band’s potential reunion during a breakfast meeting with Mark Owen. He expressed that they were considering getting back together for a gig. Kadis viewed this as a chance for closure, but it ultimately led to a successful comeback.
After their first gig back together in April 2006, Kadis sensed a renewed energy among the band members. They had worked through personal issues and were ready to reconnect as a group. The positive reception to their return surprised them all.
As the band prepares for their upcoming Circus Live tour, Kadis anticipates a celebration of their journey. The tour promises to be vibrant and nostalgic, showcasing the best of Take That.
Alex Kadis’ debut novel, Big Nobody, is now available.
As reported by www.mirror.co.uk.
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Published on 2026-05-17 15:00:00 • By FAME Delivered News Desk