In a night filled with nostalgia, surprises, and roaring pop anthems, Robbie Williams pulled off one of the most unforgettable moments of his career — and perhaps one of the biggest surprises in British pop history. During his recent show at London’s Emirates Stadium, the former Take That star stunned 60,000 fans by inviting all five original members of the iconic 1990s boy band Five onstage for a reunion performance — their first together in 25 years.
Yes, you read that right. Jason “J” Brown, Sean Conlon, Abz Love, Ritchie Neville, and Scott Robinson — the full original lineup of Five (or 5ive) — reunited live on stage to perform their 1999 mega-hit “Keep On Movin’.” And for fans of British pop, the moment felt like stepping into a time machine back to the golden era of lad bands, curtain haircuts, and low-rise jeans.
A Show Already Packed With Hits
The night was already electric. Robbie Williams took the stage with his usual swagger, running through a setlist stacked with fan favorites like “Let Me Entertain You,” “Rock DJ,” “Feel,” and “Love My Life.” Known for his theatrical flair and crowd connection, Williams had the audience in the palm of his hand from the first beat.
But it was halfway through the first act that the energy in the stadium shifted from excitement to outright disbelief. As Robbie began to sing “Keep On Movin’,” fans were puzzled — that wasn’t one of his hits. Then came the setup:
“I don’t remember the words to this next bit,” Williams joked with a grin. “I wonder if anyone can help me out? Ladies and gentlemen, the first time they’ve been seen on stage for 25 years — my mates, 5ive!”
The Crowd Erupts for a Surprise Boy Band Reunion
Within seconds, the stadium erupted into cheers as all five original members of Five bounded onto the stage, full of energy and smiles, joining Robbie in an electrifying live rendition of their feel-good anthem. The moment was pure magic — a spontaneous blend of pop nostalgia, brotherhood, and pure showmanship.
Robbie, dressed in red track pants and a matching tank top, danced alongside the reunited group, shouting, “Give them so f–kin’ love!” as the crowd screamed in delight. It was the kind of surprise no one expected — and no one will forget.
After the show, Five took to Instagram to share their gratitude and awe over the experience:
“Wow, what an honour to be asked by @robbiewilliams to join him on stage at his London stadium show. Rob has been such a big supporter of ours, from the early days through to our comeback, so when he reached out to ask whether we’d come out on stage for his performance of ‘Keep On Movin’,’ it was the EASIEST yes. To get to share that moment in front of 60,000 people was crazy… definitely a version of ‘Keep On Movin’’ we’ll never forget.”
The Long Road Back to the Stage for Five
Formed in 1997, Five was created through auditions that sought young male singer-dancers with “attitude and edge.” The result was one of the most popular boy bands of the late ’90s and early 2000s, with hits like “When the Lights Go Out,” “If Ya Gettin’ Down,” and “Everybody Get Up.” Their music combined catchy hooks, hip-hop energy, and slick choreography — a rebellious twist on the boy band formula.
They disbanded in 2001 after releasing their third studio album, Kingsize, but their music has remained a staple of ’90s and early-2000s nostalgia playlists. A brief attempt at a comeback in 2006 didn’t stick, but a proper reunion began in 2012 — although without Jason Brown, who opted out of the comeback.
That made the Robbie Williams reunion even more special, as it marked the first time all five original members shared the stage since their initial split.
What’s Next for Five?
The surprise appearance comes ahead of Five’s upcoming UK reunion tour, set to kick off this fall. The group is gearing up for a series of high-energy performances across the UK, beginning October 29 in Cardiff, Wales, at the Utilita Arena.
“This has been a long time coming and it really does feel right for all of us now — 25 years on and we’re so ready for it,” the group shared on Instagram when announcing the tour earlier this year. “We really can’t wait to get back on stage together and see you all in person. It’s gonna go OFF!! Let’s gooooo!”
Their reappearance at the Emirates show was not just a fun cameo — it was a bold, confident signal that Five are ready to step back into the spotlight.
Robbie Williams Continues His Reinvention
As for Robbie Williams, he’s been as busy as ever. Fresh off the release of his unconventional biopic, “Better Man,” earlier this year, the former Take That star is preparing to drop his 13th solo studio album, titled “Britpop,” later this fall. The album is expected to revisit the sounds and styles that shaped his early solo career while exploring new creative directions.
His Emirates show was not only a celebration of his legacy but also a testament to his enduring connection with fans, friends, and fellow artists. Williams has never been one to shy away from a big moment — and this surprise Five reunion proved once again why he remains one of the UK’s most beloved entertainers.
Final Thoughts: A Night for the Ages
For longtime fans of British pop music, the surprise reunion of Five with Robbie Williams wasn’t just a feel-good moment — it was a once-in-a-generation event. It reminded us of the power of pop music to unite people across decades, and the way artists like Williams continue to use their platform to celebrate the past while pushing forward.
With Five gearing up for their fall tour and Robbie preparing for a new album era, it’s clear that both acts have more to give. But for one unforgettable night in London, 60,000 fans got a front-row seat to boy band history in the making — and they’ll be keeping on movin’ long after the lights went down.