The music world is reeling over the sudden passing of Liam Payne, who died on Wednesday, October 16 at the age of 31 after falling from a hotel balcony in Argentina. Payne was a member of One Direction, the British reality TV creation that became one of the best-selling boy bands of all time. After the group disbanded in 2016, Payne forged a successful solo career.
On Thursday afternoon, Payne’s fellow One Directioners Niall Horan, Zayn Malik, Harry Styles, and Louis Tomlinson released a joint statement in remembrance of their former bandmate and friend: “We’re completely devastated by the news of Liam’s passing. In time, and when everyone is able to, there will be more to say. But for now, we will take some time to grieve and process the loss of our brother, who we loved dearly. The memories we shared with him will be treasured forever. For now, our thoughts are with his family, his friends, and the fans who loved him alongside us. We will miss him terribly. We love you Liam.”
Tomlinson shared a longer post on his personal Instagram, writing in part, “I am beyond devastated to be writing this but yesterday I lost a brother. Liam was somebody I looked up to everyday, such a positive, funny, and kind soul. I first met Liam when he was 16 and I was 18, I was instantly amazed by his voice but more importantly as time went on I got a chance to see the kind brother I’d longed all my life for. Liam was an incredible song writer with a great sense of melody, we often spoke of getting back in the studio together to try and recreate the writing chemistry we had built up in the band. And for the record, Liam was in my opinion the most vital part of One Direction. His experience from a young age, his perfect pitch, his stage presence, his gift for writing. The list goes on. Thank you for shaping us Liam.”
Malik also shared a post, writing in part: “I lost a brother when you left us and can't explain to you what l'd give to just give you a hug one last time and say goodbye to you properly and tell you that I loved and respected you dearly. I will cherish all the memories I have with you in my heart forever.”
Horan, whose October 2 Buenos Aires concert Payne had just attended, shared a photo on Instagram along with the caption, “I’m absolutely devastated about the passing of my amazing friend, Liam. It just doesn’t feel real. Liam had an energy for life and a passion for work that was infectious. He was the brightest in every room and always made everyone feel happy and secure.”
After the news of Payne’s death was announced on Wednesday, fans congregated outside his Buenos Aires hotel to mourn the singer. They also gathered online, sharing their grief, shock, and memories of being part of the notably active fandom for 1D, as the band was affectionately called. Famous friends of the singer also shared their condolences and tributes online.
“Words cannot express the emotions we are collectively feeling right now. And it seems like the rest of the world is in the same boat,” the Backstreet Boys wrote on X, adding, “our hearts go out to Liam’s family, friends and Directioners around the world.”
Charlie Puth, who worked on Payne’s 2017 song “Bedroom Floor,” posted videos of the two on Instagram, writing, “Liam was always so kind to me. He was one of the first major artists I got to work with. I cannot believe he is gone.”
German DJ Zedd, who collaborated with Payne on 2017’s “Get Love,” wrote on X, “RIP Liam… I can’t believe this is real… absolutely heartbreaking,” adding, “Life is short and fragile.” Oasis’s Liam Gallagher echoed the sentiment, writing, “Life is precious kids and you only get to do it ONCE go easy.”
In an Instagram story, singer Ty Dolla $ign wrote, “Just talked to you 2 days ago my guy. Ima miss u frfr sucio.” On X, Paris Hilton sent her condolences to Payne’s family and loved ones, adding, “RIP my friend.”
The official account of X Factor, the competition show that launched the band’s career, wrote, “We are heartbroken by the sad passing of Liam Payne. He was immensely talented and, as part of One Direction, Liam will leave a lasting legacy on the music industry and fans around the world. Our thoughts are with his friends, family and all who loved him.”
One Direction in 2012 (L-R: Louis Tomlinson, Zayn Malik, Harry Styles, Niall Horan and Liam Payne)
One Direction was an instant sensation, with their debut single “What Makes You Beautiful” hitting No. 4 on the Billboard Hot 100, and their ensuing five albums amassing an extremely dedicated fan base. Horan’s brother, Greg, shared a touching tribute to Payne on Instagram, writing, “To say I’m heartbroken is an understatement... you are only one of 4 lads I was happy enough to take my place in nialls life as a brother.” Styles’ mother, Anne Twist, posted a picture on Instagram with a broken heart emoji, writing, “Just a boy...”
Through a spokesperson, Payne’s family issued a statement to the BBC, writing, "We are heartbroken. Liam will forever live in our hearts, and we'll remember him for his kind, funny and brave soul. We are supporting each other the best we can as a family and ask for privacy and space at this awful time."
In addition to his parents and two older sisters, Payne is survived by his 7-year-old son Bear, whom he shared with ex-girlfriend Cheryl Cole.
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