Zayn Malik ‘Beyond Devastated’ After Liam Payne’s Death

Zayn Malik has expressed his heartbreak over the tragic death of his former One Direction bandmate, Liam Payne. Payne, who was 31, passed away after falling from a hotel balcony in Buenos Aires, Argentina, as confirmed by Policía Federal Argentina.

In a heartfelt tribute, Malik shared his grief, writing, “Liam, I’ve found myself talking out loud to you, hoping you can hear me. I can’t stop thinking about all the conversations we still had left. I never got to thank you for supporting me during some of the toughest times in my life.”

Alongside a candid photo of the two as teenagers, Malik reflected on their bond: “When I was 17 and missing home, you were always there with a positive attitude and a reassuring smile. You made sure I knew I was loved. Even though you were younger, you were always more sensible, headstrong, and unafraid to speak your mind. We clashed sometimes because of that, but I secretly admired you for it.”

Image Courtesy: People

He continued, “When it came to music, you were always the most capable. I was just a novice, but I could always rely on you to steer the ship. I lost a brother when you left us, and I can’t express how much I wish I could hug you one last time and tell you how much I loved and respected you.”

Malik ended his tribute by saying, “I hope wherever you are, you’re at peace and you know how much you were loved. Love you, bro.”

Malik and Payne’s friendship began in 2010 when they met as teens auditioning for ‘The X Factor’. Though they auditioned as solo artists, Simon Cowell paired them with Harry Styles, Niall Horan, and Louis Tomlinson to form One Direction. While the group didn’t win the competition, they became one of the biggest boy bands of the 2010s. 

Image Courtesy: People

Over the years, Payne and Malik had a complicated relationship. In a 2022 interview, Payne admitted to having a “dislike” for Malik but emphasized he would always support him. Later, in 2023, Payne clarified his remarks, explaining that he was angry at the time and regretted lashing out.

Payne, who struggled with fame and used alcohol to cope, is survived by his family, including his 7-year-old son, Bear Grey, whom he shared with his ex, Cheryl.

–Farheen Ali 

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