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- “We Will Miss Him Terribly”: One Direction Reacts to Liam Payne’s Death
“We Will Miss Him Terribly”: One Direction Reacts to Liam Payne’s Death
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As the world grapples with the shocking news of Liam Payne’s sudden death, tributes continue to pour in for the beloved singer. Payne’s former One Direction bandmates — Niall Horan, Zayn Malik, Harry Styles, and Louis Tomlinson — came together to release a heartfelt joint statement on October 17. Together they expressed their grief and honoured their late friend.
“We’re completely devastated by the news of Liam’s passing,” the group wrote.
“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.”
The bandmates ended their message with a simple but touching farewell to Payne.
“We love you, Liam,” signed by “Louis, Zayn, Niall and Harry.”
Liam Payne tragically passed away after falling from a hotel in Buenos Aires, Argentina, according to reports from local authorities. He was just 31 years old. The suddenness of Payne’s death has left fans and the music industry in deep shock. Many are struggling to comprehend the loss of someone who had such a big impact on pop culture.
In addition to the heartfelt joint statement, each member is sharing personal tributes that reflect the deep impact Liam had on their lives. They are opening up about their cherished memories and the bond they formed over the years, highlighting how much he truly meant to them.
Harry Styles Mourns Liam Payne’s Passing
Harry Styles said he is “truly devastated” by the passing of Liam Payne in an emotional tribute on Instagram.
“His greatest joy was making other people happy, and it was an honour to be alongside him as he did it,” Styles wrote, reflecting on their time together. He went on to describe Payne as someone who “lived wide open, with his heart on his sleeve,” adding that Liam had “an energy for life that was infectious”.
Styles continued, “He was warm, supportive, and incredibly loving. The years we spent together will forever remain among the most cherished years of my life. I will miss him always, my lovely friend.”
He ended his tribute with a personal message to Payne’s loved ones: “My heart breaks for Kare, Geoff, Nicola and Ruth, his son Bear, and all those around the world who knew and loved him, as I did.”
Louis Tomlinson’s Heartfelt Tribute
In addition to the group’s statement, Louis Tomlinson paid special tribute to Payne through an emotional Instagram post. He reflected on their early days, recalling when they first met on The X Factor in 2010.
“I was instantly amazed by his voice,” Tomlinson shared. “But more importantly, as time went on, I got a chance to see the kind brother I’d longed all my life for.”
Tomlinson also revealed that the two had spoken about working together again. “We often spoke of getting back in the studio together to try and recreate the writing chemistry we had built up in the band.”
Tomlinson praised Payne’s irreplaceable role in One Direction, pointing out his “perfect pitch, stage presence, and gift for writing.” He also left a personal message for Payne’s 7-year-old son, Bear, promising to tell him stories of how “amazing his dad was”.
In a final emotional note, Tomlinson wrote, “I love you mate. Sleep well.”
Zayn Malik Says He “Lost a Brother”
Zayn Malik also honoured Payne with a touching Instagram tribute. Alongside a throwback photo, Malik shared that he had been speaking aloud to Payne and was deeply saddened by their unfinished conversations.
Malik expressed gratitude for Payne’s support during their early days in One Direction. “You would always be there with a positive outlook and reassuring smile and let me know you were my friend and that I was loved.”
While Malik acknowledged they “butted heads” at times, he shared that he had secretly respected Payne’s “headstrong” and “opinionated” nature.
“I lost a brother when you left us and can’t explain to you what I’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,” Malik wrote. “I will cherish all the memories I have with you in my heart forever.”
He added: “I will cherish all the memories I have with you in my heart forever.”
If this article brings up any issues for you or anyone you know, or if you or a young person you know is struggling with symptoms of mental illness, please contact Headspace (1800 650 890) or chat online. If you are over the age of 25 and suffering from symptoms of mental illness, please contact your local GP for a Mental Health Assessment Plan or call Lifeline (13 11 14) or Kids Helpline (1800 55 1800), both of which provide trained counsellors you can talk with 24/7.
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