Harry Styles expressed profound grief over the death of his former One Direction bandmate, Liam Payne, who tragically passed away in Argentina on October 16.
In an emotional Instagram tribute on October 17, Styles, 30, wrote, “I am truly devastated by Liam’s passing. His greatest joy was making other people happy, and it was an honour to be alongside him as he did it.”
Styles described Payne as someone who “lived wide open, with his heart on his sleeve,” highlighting his infectious energy and loving nature. He fondly remembered the years spent together, stating, “The years we spent together will forever remain among the most cherished years of my life. I will miss him always, my lovely friend.” He concluded his heartfelt message by extending condolences to Payne’s family, including his son, Bear, and all who loved him.
Payne, 31, died following a fall from multiple stories at the CasaSur Palermo Hotel in Buenos Aires. According to a preliminary autopsy report, he suffered from multiple injuries and hemorrhaging. The National Criminal and Correctional Prosecutor’s Office confirmed that the autopsy revealed 25 injuries consistent with a high fall, with head injuries deemed sufficient to cause death.
Just hours before Styles shared his tribute, the remaining members of One Direction—Zayn Malik, Niall Horan, and Louis Tomlinson—released a joint statement mourning their loss. “We’re completely devastated by the news of Liam’s passing,” they stated, noting that more would be said in time. They emphasized the cherished memories shared with Payne and sent thoughts to his family, friends, and fans, stating, “We will miss him terribly. We love you, Liam.”
One Direction, formed on the reality competition series The X Factor in 2010, went on to become one of the best-selling boy bands in history, releasing five studio albums before their hiatus in 2016. Following the group’s disbandment, all members, including Payne, who found success with hits like “Strip That Down,” launched solo careers.
Styles has enjoyed a highly successful solo career, winning three Grammy Awards, including Album of the Year for Harry’s House. Despite moving on, Payne expressed his love for performing One Direction songs, stating in 2018, “I’ll never forget where I came from. That’s why I love singing the 1D songs when I’m out and about. It’s quite nostalgic for me.”
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