Liam Payne’s One Direction bandmates have issued an emotional statement after the star’s death aged 31.
They shared a joint statement with media with Styles and Tomlinson later issuing their own personal tributes.
“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 statement read.
“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.”
Styles later posted his own personal message alongside a photo of Payne, writing he was truly devastated by the passing of his “lovely friend”. “His greatest joy was making other people happy, and it was an honour to be alongside him as he did it,” he shared on Instagram.
“Liam lived wide open, with his heart on his sleeve, he 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. My heart breaks for Karen, Geoff, Nicola and Ruth, his son Bear, and all those around the world who knew and loved him, as I did.”
Tomlinson also posted his own tribute to social media, writing, “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.”
Payne lost his life after reportedly falling from a third-floor hotel balcony in Buenos Aires on October 16, 2024, with many stars sharing tributes in the aftermath,
“The worst news. I remember him as a 14-year-old turning up to audition on The X Factor, and blowing us away singing Sinatra,” wrote former The X Factor presenter Dermot O’Leary, adding, “He just loved to sing. He was always a joy, had time for everyone, polite, grateful. and was always humble. Sending love and prayers to his family.
“I am in shock right now. Liam was always so kind to me. He was one of the first major artists I got to work with. I can not believe he is gone,” singer Charlie Puth wrote to Instagram.
“Sp upsetting to hear the news of @LiamPayne passing. Sending love and condolences to his family & loved ones. RIP my friend,” wrote Paris Hilton.
“RIP Liam… I can’t believe this is real… absolutely heartbreaking,” Zedd shared to X.
“Sending strength to Cheryl and his son Bear and all the One Direction family. RIP @LiamPayne,” musical duo Jedward wrote to X.
Alongside many celebrities, fans and followers of the former One Direction star have also taken to social media to share their condolences and thank the late singer for his ongoing role in their lives.
“Rest in peace, Liam. You were a huge part of so many’s childhood, adolescence, and adulthood. Thank you for sharing your talents with us during the short time you had on Earth. We will never forget you,” one fan penned to Instagram.
“One Direction was such an important part of my life growing and the news of Liam Payne has truly broken me down. My heart goes out to everyone affected by this news and his family,” commented another.
“I feel like most of us are so shocked over Liam Payne’s death because that man once was part of something our 13-year-old selfs [sic] could never imagine living without,” wrote one fan to X.
Local newspaper La Nacion was the first to report the news of the 31-year-old’s passing, with the police reportedly being called to a hotel in Buenos Aires after receiving a call that detailed “an aggressive man who could be under the effects of drugs and alcohol.”
Following the arrival of emergency services, ambulance workers later pronounced Payne dead at the scene.