Robbie Williams, the English singer-songwriter who rose to fame with Take That, attributes a significant turning point in his life – and perhaps his continued existence – to a Māori ta moko tattoo he received over two decades ago. In a recent interview with Modern Zealand’s Seven Sharp, Williams shared a deeply personal reflection, stating the tattoo, which contains a prayer, has been a source of protection during a period marked by intense personal struggles.
“I have a prayer on my arm and my shoulder, that must’ve gone a long way at protecting me because there’s no reason for me to be alive,” Williams said. “So I put it down to my tattoo, I put it down to my wife and the kids.” The statement offers a glimpse into the singer’s well-documented battles with mental health and addiction, issues he candidly addressed in his 2023 Netflix docuseries, Robbie Williams. The series explored the pressures of early fame and the toll it took on his well-being, particularly during and after his departure from Take That in 1995.
Williams’ journey to international stardom began at just 16 years old with the formation of Take That, a boy band that quickly became a global phenomenon. Hits like “Back For Good” dominated charts worldwide, but behind the scenes, the intense scrutiny and demands of fame were taking a heavy toll. As Williams revealed in his docuseries, he was self-medicating with alcohol even during rehearsals, admitting to consuming a bottle of vodka nightly. This period of excess and instability ultimately led to his exit from the group and a prolonged period of personal turmoil.
A Turning Point and a Return to New Zealand
The Māori tattoo, received during a visit to New Zealand, represents more than just ink to Williams. Ta moko, the traditional Māori practice of permanent body marking, is deeply rooted in cultural and spiritual significance. Each design carries meaning and often tells a story about the wearer’s lineage, status, and personal history. While the specific details of Williams’ tattoo and the prayer it contains haven’t been publicly disclosed, his belief in its protective power speaks to the profound impact the experience had on him.
Williams’ openness about his struggles has resonated with many, and his recent comments highlight the importance of finding sources of strength and support during demanding times. He credits not only the tattoo but as well his wife, Ayda Field, and their children with helping him navigate his path to recovery and a more stable life. He is now sober and, by his own account, leading a far less chaotic existence.
“The diary is not that engaging,” Williams told Seven Sharp, a marked contrast to the whirlwind of his earlier career. He also shared positive news regarding his relationship with former Take That bandmate Gary Barlow, with whom he recently collaborated on new music. “I haven’t stopped collaborating with him since we became friends after my dramatic fallout with him. Hopefully this won’t be the last of the things we do together, I love him and he’s an incredible person.”
Returning to the Stage in Aotearoa
Williams is scheduled to return to Aotearoa New Zealand in November as part of his BRITPOP World Tour, with performances scheduled for Eden Park in Auckland and Te Kaha Stadium in Christchurch. The tour is being supported by the Government’s Major Events and Tourism Package, a $70 million fund aimed at attracting significant events to the country and boosting the tourism sector.
This will be Williams’ first performance in Christchurch in 25 years and the inaugural concert at the newly completed Te Kaha Stadium. He last performed in New Zealand in 2023, selling out a indicate at Mission Estate Winery in Hawke’s Bay. He also indicated he may consider adding to his collection of tattoos during his time in New Zealand, suggesting a continued connection to the culture and the significance of the markings.
As Williams prepares for his return to Aotearoa, his story serves as a reminder of the complexities of fame, the importance of mental health, and the power of finding meaning and support in unexpected places. Further details regarding the tour, including ticket information and specific dates, can be found on his official website.
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, please reach out for help. You can contact the New Zealand Mental Health Crisis Assessment Team on 0800 111 333, or text 4357 (HELP) to connect with a trained crisis supporter.
