Gary Barlow's Friends Defend Him After 'Unflattering' Photos Emerge

Friends of Gary Barlow have dismissed concerns over recent photographs, stating that the Take That star is “fit for 55” and that the images were unflattering. Barlow, 55, was photographed in London on Monday lunching at the Michelin-starred Dorian restaurant in Notting Hill.

The singer appeared notably different from his on-stage persona, having been clean-shaven and dressed down in an oversized black jumper and loose-fitting trousers. He was accompanied by wine expert and social media personality Tom Gilbey. Barlow and Gilbey have collaborated previously, including a blind taste test of Barlow's own rosé and a tour of Bordeaux vineyards.

This outing comes three months after Barlow concluded Take That's extensive Circus Live tour. The physically demanding production featured a wide array of performers, including fire-breathers, trapeze artists, clowns, and even a 30ft mechanical elephant. Barlow himself participated in a unicycle stunt during the shows.

The 2026 tour was a revival of the group's 2009 stadium show and included elaborate staging elements like a floating hot-air balloon and a large ensemble of 260 performers. The original Circus tour, supporting the band's 2008 album of the same name, was at the time the fastest-selling in UK history.

This summer's revival tour did not include former bandmate Jason Orange, who departed the group in 2014. The final show took place on July 4 in Dublin. Following the tour's conclusion, Barlow described it as Take That's 'best tour ever,' expressing his anticipation for future projects.

Barlow is set to return to the spotlight with Take That's tenth studio album, 'Dreamers,' scheduled for release on November 20. The band will perform the new album at a special one-off show at the London Palladium a week prior to the release and are planning a European tour for the following summer.