The Wanted Release Heartbreaking Statement As They Cancel First Gig

Tom sadly passed away at the end of March at the age of 33 after he was diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumor in October 2020.

The Wanted had been due to perform at the Live After Racing event at Newcastle Racecourse on 23 July, but have explained they have decided to cancel the performance.

“After some reflection, and with a heavy heart, we can confirm that we will no longer be performing at the Live After Racing event scheduled to take place at Newcastle Racecourse on 23rd July," they said.

“It is just over 2 months since we lost Tom and as much as we love performing live, it is just far too soon for us to even think about being on stage again as The Wanted.

“We are all still processing the events of the last few months and need to take this time out for reflection. We are so sorry to let anyone down and thank you for your understanding and support. We will see you all soon x.”

Fans flooded to the post with support, with one person writing: "I guarantee you, not a single person will feel let down. We feel your heartbreak and totally respect this decision. Take all the time you need, we'll always support you in whatever you choose to do. Sending you all so much love."

While another said: "We’ll be here waiting for you, no matter how long it takes. And if you decide you won’t be on stage again as a band it’s completely understandable, supporting you through everything, just make sure it makes YOU guys happy and gives you the freedom to express yourselves."

The statement comes just days after Max George revealed he still sends text messages to Tom.

Max appeared on This Morning, where he spoke to presenters Alison Hammond and Dermot O’Leary about Hope, the book Tom completed before his tragic death.

“I still text him actually,” he admitted. “If I get pictures of stuff that fans have made with him in it, or they send a nice message to do with Tom, I’ll WhatsApp it to him still.

“I think I just find a bit of comfort in that. The worst bit is when I do it accidentally. Sometimes you just go to text and then you [remember he’s dead].”

Before Tom’s passing, he joined his bandmates during their UK tour in March 2022.