Before Liam Payne’s untimely passing, there were discussions among all five original members of One Direction regarding a potential reunion. According to a source who spoke to Us Weekly on Wednesday, even Zayn Malik, who left the band previously, was involved in conversations about “one last reunion show” prior to Payne’s fatal accident on October 16.
Although plans have been postponed, the insider indicated that a concert could still happen, albeit with a new importance for the group. “The guys would love to do a tribute to Liam. They’re all so devastated right now that they can’t even consider it a legitimate project, but it has been discussed,” the source revealed to the magazine.
Zayn Malik reaffirms his bond with the band in the wake of Liam’s untimely passing
The report highlighted that Payne’s unexpected death “has caused the guys immense heartbreak” and described the loss as “a wake-up call” for the surviving members: Harry Styles, Niall Horan, Louis Tomlinson, and Malik. “Before this tragedy, they kept in touch sporadically but didn’t share close friendships at all,” noted the insider.
As they mourn, the band members are making an effort to check in on each other, feeling more connected than they have in years. “It brought them back together,” the source added. Page Six reached out to One Direction’s representatives for comment, but they did not respond. Malik, 31, had infamously departed the group in 2015 to pursue a solo career, and after announcing an indefinite hiatus in 2016, Payne, Styles, 30, Horan, 31, and Tomlinson, 32, followed suit.
Following the breakup, the “What Makes You Beautiful” singers were not seen together again until Payne’s funeral on November 20. Tragically, the “Strip That Down” singer died at age 31 after falling from a hotel balcony in Buenos Aires, Argentina.
Authorities believe that Payne, who had multiple drugs in his system, including cocaine and crack, was “unconscious” when he fell over the railing. Several individuals have since faced charges in connection with his death.
In the wake of the tragedy, Styles, Tomlinson, Malik, and Horan each shared tributes to Payne on social media and issued a rare joint statement. “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,” they expressed. “For now, we will take some time to grieve and process the loss of our brother, whom we loved dearly.”
Their heartfelt statement continued, “The memories we shared with him will be treasured forever. Our thoughts are with his family, friends, and the fans who loved him alongside us. We will miss him terribly. We love you, Liam.”
Malik also honors his late bandmate during his nightly tour performances. At the conclusion of each show, the “Pillowtalk” singer displays a message that reads, “Liam Payne 1993-2024 Love you, bro.”
Additionally, Malik dedicated his song “It’s You” to Payne during his performance on November 29 in Wolverhampton, England, which is also the “Polaroid” singer’s hometown. “I’ve been doing something at the end of the show every night, and it is dedicated to my brother Liam Payne,” he addressed the audience.
“Rest in peace. I hope you see this. We’re in your hometown tonight, Wolverhampton. This is for you, Liam.”
