Earlier today, Harry Styles, Niall Horan, Louis Tomlinson, and Zayn Malik issued a heartfelt statement to The Hollywood Reporter addressing the loss of their former bandmate Liam Payne. This marks the first public response from the One Direction members following the tragic news.
In their statement, they expressed, “We’re completely devastated by the news of Liam’s passing. When the time feels right, we will say more, but for now, we need to grieve and come to terms with the loss of our brother, whom we loved deeply.
Payne’s family shared their heartbreak, asking for privacy during this painful time as they remember his “kind, funny, and brave soul.”
The memories we made together will always remain close to our hearts. For now, our thoughts are with his family, friends, and the fans who shared in loving him with us. We will miss him more than words can express. We love you, Liam.”
Authorities confirmed that Payne died yesterday in Buenos Aires after a fall from the third floor of his hotel. He had traveled to the city to attend Horan’s concert on October 2.
The five original members of One Direction initially auditioned separately for The X Factor in 2010, later being formed into a group that achieved worldwide fame. Malik left in 2015, and the rest of the band went on an indefinite hiatus the following year, with each pursuing solo careers.
Payne’s family also shared a statement through the BBC, expressing their profound sadness. “We are heartbroken,” the statement from his parents, Karen and Geoff, read. “Liam will always remain in our hearts, remembered for his kind, funny, and courageous spirit. As a family, we are leaning on each other through this unimaginable loss and ask for privacy during this painful time.”
