The much-awaited “1D reunion” happened in the form of a joint statement released by One Direction bandmates Louis Tomlinson, Zayn Malik, Niall Horan, and Harry Styles, sharing their utter devastation towards Liam Payne’s passing.
Photo: One Direction
On October 18 (Philippine time), the English-Irish boy band honored their bandmate in a heartfelt statement posted on social media.
“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. But for now, we will take some time to grieve and process the loss of our brother, who we loved dearly,” the statement reads.
It added: “The memories we shared with him will be treasured forever.”
Photo: One Direction
Liam died on October 17 after falling from the third floor of a hotel in Argentina, according to the police.
Authorities stated that the English pop star suffered from “very serious injuries incompatible with life as a result of his fall.” He was only 31 years old.
Zayn Malik, who left the band in 2015, penned a heartbreaking tribute on his social media pages, showing a photo of a younger photo of him and Liam asleep in a car.
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“I never got to thank you for supporting me through some of the most difficult times in my life,” Zayn said. “When I was missing home as a 17-year-old kid, you would always be there with a positive outlook and reassuring smile and let me know you were my friend and that I was loved.”
The 31-year-old star is “beyond devastated” by losing his former bandmate: “I lost a brother when you left us and can’t explain to you what I’d give to just give you a hug one last time and say goodbye to you properly and tell you that I loved and respected you dearly. I will cherish all the memories I have with you in my heart forever.”
Fellow bandmate Louis Tomlinson also paid tribute to the English singer-songwriter.
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“I feel beyond lucky to have had you in my life but I’m really struggling with the idea of saying goodbye,” Louis wrote, adding that it was a luxury to have Liam in his life. “I would loved to share the stage with you again but it wasn’t to be.”
The Back to You singer also added that he would be there to support Liam’s seven-year-old son, Bear: “I want you to know that if Bear ever needs me I will be the uncle he needs in his life and tell him stories of how amazing his dad was.”
“I wish I got [the] chance to say goodbye and tell you one more time how much I loved you,” he shared.
Harry Styles expressed that he is “truly devastated” by Liam’s passing.
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“Liam lived wide open, with his heart on his sleeve, he had an energy for life that was infectious. He was warm, supportive, and incredibly loving,” Harry shared. “The years we spent together will forever remain among the most cherished yours of my life. I will miss him always, my lovely friend.”
The Grammy-winning pop star added: “My heart breaks for Karen, Geoff, Nicola and Ruth, his son Bear, and all those around the world who knew and loved him, as I did.”
Louis, Zayn, Niall, Harry, and Liam auditioned as solo contestants in the hit British singing competition The X Factor in 2010 but were brought together as a band.
During their time in One Direction, the boy band released five successful albums, went on multiple world tours, and was considered one of the most successful boy bands in history. In 2016, they announced their indefinite hiatus.
Outside of the band, Liam launched his solo career and released tracks such as “Strip That Down,” “Bedroom Floor,” and “Tear Drops.”
ALSO READ: Musicians and Celebrities Pay Heartfelt Tribute to Liam Payne
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