Max George signed to a new management company promising to make him a ‘global star’ just two weeks before mysteriously pulling out of touring theatre show The Syndicate.
The Wanted singer, 35, is still pictured on some theatre websites and multiple ticket platforms after being cast as one of The Syndicate’s star names alongside Coronation Street actress Brooke Vincent and Emmerdale‘s Samantha Giles.
But just weeks before the show’s opening – and start of a five-month tour – Max announced he’s unable to perform due to ‘personal reasons’ and said he would be there to cheer on his former co-stars ‘once I’m feeling better.’
However, less than 24 hours after releasing the statement to his Instagram followers, Max was seen watching his beloved Manchester City play Liverpool at Anfield.
His withdrawal from The Syndicate comes after he signed a new contract with Soulheart Group, who promise to spearhead his career overseas and teased a ‘big announcement’ coming soon.
A showbiz insider said: ‘Pulling out of the show at such short notice is bound to raise eyebrows – it’s far from ideal, especially as he appeared in all the promo.
‘But the deal for Max to join his new agency has been in the works for some time and is not connected to him quitting the tour.
‘They will be focusing on his music side which could see him restart his pop career.’
MailOnline understands that Max’s new management will be working in collaboration with Matchstick, who are the singer’s longtime representation.
Max announced his withdrawal from the show on Saturday afternoon, saying: ‘Hey everyone. Really gutted but for personal reasons I won’t be taking part in The Syndicate.
‘It’s going to be an amazing show and I wish Gaynor and all the cast all the luck in the world. I’ll be there to cheer you all on once I’m feeling better.’
The ex-Strictly star has been replaced in The Syndicate by Oliver Anthony, son of Gaynor Faye, who is directing and starring in the production, and the grandson of the show’s legendary writer Kay Mellor. Oliver appeared in series four of the BBC One Show, on which the play is based.
Max’s stage debut was set to be his first foray into acting since his 2015 appearance in US series Glee.
MailOnline has contacted Max’s spokesperson for comment.
