Were Neil Tennant and Chris Lowe enlisted by the That to babysit their friend Robbie Williams, to make sure he doesn't get into any trouble on the road for the first time in 16 years with his old bandmates? Have the Boys become addicted to a life spent in hotels around the world (they toured their last record Yes forever, it seemed)? Did their pal Stuart Price, who produced the That's latest album Progress, convince them it'd be a good idea?
Says Take That's website:
...Take That are all massive fans. Gary said: "I've followed their whole career and always loved their unique approach to records and live performance. That combined with two lovely people means we're in for a great tour."
Pet Shop Boys said: "We are delighted to accept Take That's invitation to be part of their Progress show and tour which is undoubtedly going to be one of the most exciting events of 2011. We look forward to every night being a huge celebration of pop music."
Truth is, I don't care why they're doing it. All I know is my tickets to the Milan show in July just got a whole lot more fetching.
