In 1995, millions of teenage girls around the world had their hearts broken when Robbie Williams left Take That. Twenty years later, a new generation of teenage girls experienced the same pain when Zayn Malik confirmed he was departing One Direction after five years at the top of the charts. Now, Mark Owen, one of the remaining members of Take That has offered advice to the four lads continuing on as One Direction.
Speaking to Magic FM, Mark said: "Do you know what, one thing that we never did when Rob left us the first time is we never... You get caught up in your world and you forget sometimes... hopefully somebody's phoned Zayn and made sure he's alright, because it's, you know it's difficult."
Mark Owen and Gary Barlow at the 2014 Brit Awards
He continued: "I hope they're still in touch with each other even though on the outside there might be different things, hopefully they're all in touch with each other and just checking in on each other."
Take That continued for another seven months until disbanding in 1996. Mark and band mate Gary Barlow went on to attempt solo careers, before the band reunited in 2006 for a brand new tour.
During the interview, Gary added: "I agree with Mark, I think it's sometimes, it's always hard for the one that leaves, so hopefully they are all in touch. I'm sure he's got good people around him anyway."
Robbie Williams and Zayn Malik both left boy bands at the height of their careersZayn confirmed he was leaving One Direction in March, revealing: "My life with One Direction has been more than I could ever have imagined. But, after five years, I feel like it is now the right time for me to leave the band."
"I'd like to apologise to the fans if I've let anyone down, but I have to do what feels right in my heart. I am leaving because I want to be a normal 22-year-old who is able to relax and have some private time out of the spotlight.
"I know I have four friends for life in Louis, Liam, Harry and Niall. I know they will continue to be the best band in the world."