Tragic news for Directioners worldwide. It was reported earlier today (Thursday, 17 October) that former One Direction member Liam Payne has passed away at the age of 31. According to reports, police responded to a call about a man who may be under the influence and behaving erratically at a hotel in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Upon arrival, they discovered the body of a British man, believed to have fallen from his hotel balcony.
There are no official reports regarding the cause of death as investigations are still ongoing. Just an hour before his death, the “Sunshine” artist posted several stories on Snapchat, making it seem like everything was fine. Shortly after the news broke out, those posts have been removed. Fans have gathered outside the hotel to mourn the superstar and several celebs have paid tribute to their friend upon hearing the devastating news.
Charlie Puth
Singer-songwriter Charlie Puth posted several photos and videos of him meeting the late singer on Instagram Stories. “[He was so kind to me. He was one of the first major artists I got to work with. I cannot believe he’s gone,” he wrote.
Ty Dolla $ign
Another musician paid tribute to the late superstar. Rapper Ty Dolla $ign reacted to the news saying that he had just spoken to Liam two days ago and shared a photo of them hanging out together.
Dermot O’Leary
X Factor host Dermot O’Leary shared a black-and-white photo of himself and Liam, reminiscing about the first time he saw the young star audition for the reality programme. “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. 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,” he wrote.
Paris Hilton
Reality star and DJ Paris Hilton tweeted about Liam’s tragic death. “Sending love and condolences to his family & loved ones. 🙏 RIP my friend🥺”.
Dan Richards
One Direction guitarist and music director Dan Richards posted on Instagram Story that he is still processing the news of his friend’s untimely death saying, “This all feels so surreal. Still trying to wrap my head around it all. My thoughts go out to Liam’s family at this time.”
Corbyn Besson
Former Why Don’t We member Corbyn Besson has met Liam Payne once before. The singer posted a backstage photo of him and his band members chatting with the pop star with a caption that reads, “Damn this liam payne news got me speechless. I looked up to 1D so much during the Why Don’t We days. You really never know when it’s your time to go. Remind your friends/family that you love them today and every day.”
Zedd, Shawn Mendes, JEDWARD
More and more celebs are coming forward to mourn the late pop artist. Producer Zedd, singer Shawn Mendes and duo JEDWARD, who also had their start on X Factor, took to Twitter to say their goodbyes to Liam Payne.
In addition to the legacy he created during his time with One Direction, the British star leaves behind his son, Bear, whom he shared with singer Cheryl Cole. At the time of writing, his former members Niall Horan, Harry Styles, Louis Tomlinson and Zayn Malik have yet to say anything about his untimely death.
