Max George has reportedly pulled out of the new ITV programme The Games' promo events after the tragic death of his friend and The Wanted bandmate Tom Parker.
The grieving singer, 33, is said to have withdrawn from the press day "last minute" because he "isn't in a good space following Tom's death".
Tom passed away late last month aged 33 after a battle with stage four glioblastoma. His funeral was held last week.
A source told The Sun : "He has been finding it tough to talk and although there were no questions allowed about Tom, Max felt he wasn't strong enough to face a lot of people.
"Tom's death has hit him very hard and he is working through his grief with the support of everyone at The Games.
"He has told bosses he is determined to compete and give it his all on the live shows, he will be competing in Tom's honour and will be pushing himself to his limit for him."
Mirror Online has contacted Max's representatives and ITV for comment.
The Wanted had reunited for a final tour before Tom's passing, with him making his last appearance with the band in Liverpool while seated on a throne to sing with his co-stars and pals.
Tom's funeral took place on April 20th at Saint Francis of Assisi Parish Church in Petts Wood, south east London.
Max was among the group that carried Tom's coffin into the church, which included bandmates Siva Kaneswaran, Jay McGuiness and Nathan Sykes
He opened up about the experience on Instagram afterwards, and said that he felt honoured to have been able to support Tom in such a way at the service.
He wrote: "Good night beautiful boy. I will always think of you. Thanks for making my life so much better than I could ever have hoped for. Carrying you was an honour."
Max further commented in the recent post: "You have carried me so many times over the last 12 years. I love you Tom." He concluded by writing: "See you up there brother."
Alongside the caption, the singer shared a series of photos from the service, including one which showed him and bandmate Jay McGuiness, 31, carrying the coffin.
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