Celebrities are mourning the loss of former One Direction member Liam Payne, who tragically passed away at the age of 31. According to police reports, he died after falling from the third floor of a hotel in Argentina. The incident occurred around 5 PM local time, prompting an outpouring of grief from fans and fellow stars alike. Many took to social media to share their memories of Liam, who is remembered not only for his music but also as a devoted father to his son, Bear, whom he shared with ex-partner Cheryl from Girls Aloud.
Liam had been in Argentina recently to attend a concert by his former bandmate Niall Horan on October 2, as seen in videos shared on social media. He had also celebrated his 31st birthday in the UK, according to posts on his Snapchat.
Early Life and Rise to Fame
Born in Wolverhampton, West Midlands, Liam was the youngest of three siblings and studied music technology at the City of Wolverhampton College. He gained fame as a member of the British boyband One Direction, which was formed in 2010 after all five members appeared on the UK version of “The X Factor.” The group also included Harry Styles, Zayn Malik, Louis Tomlinson, and Niall Horan.
A Cherished Member of One Direction
Liam was one of the five members of One Direction, alongside Zayn Malik, Louis Tomlinson, Niall Horan, and Harry Styles. Harry’s mother, Anne Twist, also shared her sorrow on Instagram, posting a broken-hearted emoji with the caption, “Just a boy.”
Heartfelt Tributes from Friends and Colleagues
Dermot O’Leary, who was the host of The X Factor during Liam’s rise to fame, shared a heartfelt tribute on Instagram, posting a photo of the two on stage with the caption, “The worst news.” “I remember him as a 14-year-old who wowed us with his Sinatra performance during his audition for The X Factor. He just loved to sing,” Dermot O’Leary reminisced. “He was always a joy to be around, polite, humble, and grateful, making time for everyone.”
Reflections from Fellow Artists
Singer Olly Murs, who appeared on The X Factor a year before One Direction, expressed his devastation over Liam’s passing, saying he was “lost for words.” He reflected on their encounters, sharing fond memories of their laughter and conversations, often revolving around Liam’s famously great hair and their shared love for David Beckham during their time on The X Factor and the tour they both participated in. “Liam and I shared the same passions and dreams, so it’s incredibly hard to see his life end so young. I’m truly heartbroken for his family and especially for his son, Bear, who has lost his father.”
US singer Charlie Puth, who co-wrote Liam’s 2017 song “Bedroom Floor,” expressed his shock at the news. He shared photos of them working together, writing, “Liam was always so kind to me.” “He was one of the first major artists I had the chance to work with. I can’t believe he’s gone… I’m really upset right now. May he rest in peace.”
A Personal Connection
Max George from The Wanted called Liam’s passing “absolutely devastating news.” “In recent years, I had the pleasure of getting to know him personally and spent some cherished moments together,” he shared on Instagram. “Liam was incredibly supportive when Tom [Parker] fell ill, even performing with us at the Royal Albert Hall for Stand Up To Cancer. He also provided me with a lot of personal support after Tom’s passing, and I will always remember that.”
Community Grief
On X, Rylan Clark, a fellow X Factor contestant, described the news as “so tragic,” while Jedward extended their condolences to Cheryl, Bear, and the entire One Direction family. Socialite Paris Hilton also expressed her sorrow on X, calling Liam’s death “so upsetting.” DJ and music producer Zedd, who collaborated with Liam on the 2017 track “Get Low,” said the news was “absolutely heartbreaking.” American singer and rapper Ty Dolla Sign shared his feelings on Instagram, stating he would “miss” Liam and reflecting on their recent conversation just two days prior.