Former ‘X Factor’ boyband Union J have revealed that they have axed member George Shelley, after he refused to commit to the group.
George has been with the group since their time on the ITV singing show in 2012, but his bandmates have now revealed that they’ll be continuing their career in music without him.
George Shelley
Speaking to The Sun, Josh Cuthbert explained: “I wrote a really strong email. We basically gave him an ultimatum. It was, ‘You’re either in the band or you’re not’.”
He went on to claim that George has been in a different “headspace” from the rest of the group ever since leaving the ‘I’m A Celebrity’ jungle last year, where he finished in second place.
Union J as they were, in June of last year
Josh continued: “Using a sporting analogy, he wanted to turn up to the big matches but not turn up to training.
“I would much rather have someone who wants to do it and is committed to do it. I’m not going to lose any sleep over him not being in the band.”
Ouch!
The group have also revealed that, rather than continuing as a three-piece, they’ll be looking for a new fourth member in the foreseeable future.
Since coming off ‘The X Factor’, Union J had four UK top 10 singles with George as a member, including their most recent offering ‘You Got It All’, which reached number two upon its release in 2014.
After finishing as runner-up in ‘I’m A Celebrity’ last year, George has carved a new career for himself as a presenter, hosting on Capital Radio, as well as fronting red carpet coverage for the Brit Awards last week.
He recently made headlines himself when he published a candid video on his YouTube page, opening up about his sexuality and revealing to his fans that he prefers not to label himself.
George is yet to discuss his departure from the band on social media, but his Twitter page has removed all references to Union J already.
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