How Louis Tomlinson Learned About Liam Payne’s Death From Niall Horan

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Louis Tomlinson knows how quickly the night changes.

The One Direction member sadly shared the story of how he learned about Liam Payne’s death. He said he found out from Niall Horan while he was driving in Los Angeles.

In October 2024, 31-year-old Payne died after a fall from a hotel balcony in Argentina. Authorities determined he suffered fatal injuries from the fall, including internal and external bleeding. Toxicology reports showed he had alcohol, cocaine, and an antidepressant in his system at the time of his death.

Tomlinson, 33, shared on the October 8th episode of the *Diary of a CEO* podcast that Horan’s call reminded him of the feelings he experienced when his sister, Félicité, tragically passed away from an accidental overdose in 2019. He explained that when someone is struggling, it’s easy to feel like you aren’t doing enough to help, and that was certainly true in this situation.

Looking back, Tomlinson said Payne was “definitely struggling at that time in his life.”

Looking back, I realize I was probably just being arrogant to think I could have made a difference,” the singer confessed. “His struggles were far beyond anything I could have fixed.

Soon after Payne died, Tomlinson posted a tribute on Instagram, saying he felt like he’d lost a brother.

It feels incredibly lucky to have had you in my life, and I’m finding it really hard to accept that we’re saying goodbye,” the star of *All of Those Voices* shared. “I’m so thankful that we became even closer after the band, spending hours on the phone remembering all our wonderful memories. I always imagined I’d have those conversations with you forever.

Tomlinson explained he shared his feelings online to ensure Payne was remembered with the respect he deserved.

I could talk about how incredible he was for hours, but I think everyone admired him,” he explained to Steven Bartlett on *Diary of a CEO*. “Back when I was in the band, I don’t think any of us would have been able to tell him that, because I think we were all too proud. But we definitely all looked up to him a lot.

In November, Tomlinson was among those who attended Louis Payne’s funeral in London, alongside Harry Styles and Zayn Malik, also former members of One Direction. Last year, the group released a statement saying they were deeply saddened by the loss.

Tomlinson, Horan, Styles, and Malik said they would always cherish their memories of him and that they would miss him deeply.

For more celeb tributes to Payne, read on.

The band shared on Instagram that they are heartbroken by the loss of Liam. They said they need time to mourn and will share more thoughts later, when they are able. They described him as a beloved brother.

Honestly, seeing Louis, Zayn, Niall, and Harry talk about Liam just *gets* to me. They keep saying how much he meant to them, how he really shaped their lives, and it’s just… everything. It’s amazing to see them still acknowledging his impact, even now. It really shows how close they all were, and it makes my heart so full!

We will always cherish our memories of him. Right now, we’re thinking of his family, friends, and everyone who loved him as much as we did. He will be deeply missed. We love you, Liam.

Niall shared a heartfelt message on Instagram about the loss of his friend, Liam. He described feeling shocked and heartbroken, saying Liam brought incredible energy and enthusiasm to everything he did. Niall remembered Liam as someone who lit up a room and always made people feel good.

The “Slow Hands” singer continued to reminisce on his time singing alongside Liam in One Direction. 

Despite the sadness, I keep remembering all the laughter we shared over the years – even the little things. We achieved everything we ever dreamed of together, and I’ll treasure those moments always. A friendship like ours is rare and special.

Niall recently had Liam and his girlfriend, Kate Cassidy, at his concert in Buenos Aires. He also shared his experience of seeing his friend one last time.

I was so lucky to have seen him just recently. It breaks my heart to think that the goodbye and hug I gave him that night was actually forever. It’s just devastating. I’m sending all my love and deepest sympathy to Geoff, Karen, Ruth, Nicola, and especially his son, Bear. Thank you for everything, Payno. I’ll miss you always, brother.

Harry shared on Instagram that he was heartbroken by the loss of Liam. He described Liam as someone who found the most joy in bringing happiness to others, and said it was a privilege to know him.

He described Liam as someone who lived life to the fullest and openly shared his feelings, with a contagious enthusiasm. He was a warm, supportive, and loving person, and the time they spent together was deeply treasured. He said he would miss his dear friend forever.

Liam’s former One Direction bandmate reflected on all he wished he could have said to him. 

Zayn shared on Instagram that he wished they’d had more time to talk. He explained he never got to properly thank the person for their support during tough times, recalling how they always offered encouragement and a comforting presence when he was a homesick teenager, reminding him he was loved and had a friend in them.

Despite being younger, you always had better judgment than I did. You were strong-willed, never hesitated to share your opinion, and weren’t afraid to call people out when you thought they were wrong. We clashed over this sometimes, but I always admired you for it.

Zayn also called Liam “the most qualified” musician in the band “in every sense.”

He shared that losing his brother felt unbearable and expressed how much he wished he could have one last hug and a proper goodbye. He deeply loved and respected his brother and will forever hold their memories close. He said no words could truly capture how devastated he feels.

Louis posted a heartfelt message on Instagram, remembering Liam and their friendship.

I’m heartbroken to share that I lost my brother, Liam, yesterday,” Louis wrote. “Liam was someone I always admired – he was incredibly positive, funny, and kind. I met him when I was 18 and he was 16, and I was immediately struck by his voice. But as I got to know him, I realized he was the brother I’d always wanted.

The singer of “Back To You,” who also collaborated with Liam on writing many One Direction songs, also talked about how much of an influence Liam had on the band.

He described Liam as an exceptionally talented songwriter with a natural gift for melody, saying they’d often discussed collaborating again to recapture the creative spark they shared during their time in the band. He also emphasized Liam’s crucial role in One Direction, highlighting his early experience, perfect pitch, captivating stage presence, and songwriting ability, adding, ‘Thank you, Liam, for everything you brought to the group.’

Liam’s family – including his mother, Karen, father, Geoff, and sisters, Ruth and Nicola – shared with the BBC that they are devastated by his loss. They will always cherish his memory, remembering him as a kind, funny, and courageous person. The family is leaning on each other for support and asks for privacy during this incredibly difficult time.

Liam’s girlfriend, who was traveling with the singer when he died and had returned home a few days earlier, said she’s been devastated by the news of his death.

Kate shared on Instagram that the last few days haven’t felt real and asked for privacy as she processes everything.

The influencer described Liam as an “angel” and shared, “I loved you with all my heart, and that love will never change.”

Cheryl, who has a son named Bear with the deceased, described her ex-partner’s death as devastating and asked for understanding and compassion during this incredibly difficult time.

In a recent Instagram post on October 18th, she reminded everyone that Liam was more than just a famous singer. He was a beloved family member – a son, brother, uncle, and a dear friend – and, most importantly, a father to a 7-year-old son who will now grow up without his dad. She emphasized the personal loss behind the public figure.

She pleaded for Liam to be remembered with respect, hoping he could finally find peace after his passing.

“I’m absolutely heartbroken and feel completely empty,” the *X Factor* judge shared on Instagram on October 18th. “I want you to know how much I love and respect you. Every tear I’ve cried is a reminder of the memories we shared.”

Simon described Liam, whom he mentored alongside the other members of One Direction, as “kind, funny, sweet, thoughtful, talented, humble, and focused.” He added that he’d always seen the five bandmates as brothers.

He continued, “Liam, it’s clear how many lives you touched. It’s so sad you were taken from us so young. Rest peacefully, my friend.”

Ed shared on Instagram on October 17th that he was deeply saddened by the news. He wrote that his heart goes out to the family and friends of the person who passed, recalling only happy memories. He ended his message with a plea for kindness.

The Little Mix singer shared the heartbreaking news of Liam’s death on Instagram on October 17th, expressing deep sympathy for his family, friends, and everyone who cared for him.

Jade, who was in Little Mix with Perrie Edwards, Leigh-Anne Pinnock, and Jesy Nelson when they competed on *The X Factor UK* in 2011, also reminisced about starting out in the music industry with Liam.

It feels so strange talking about him now… we just drifted apart over time, you know? But honestly, he was my *first* friend ever in this crazy industry, back in 2008. We were both just kids, really, so full of dreams and desperate to succeed. I keep replaying those early days in my head… I just really hope he’s finally found some peace.

The Little Mix member reshared Louis Tomlinson’s post about Liam, adding a message of her own. 

She shared her immense sadness, describing him as consistently kind and down-to-earth whenever they met. She fondly remembered seeing One Direction perform live and being immediately captivated by Liam’s natural stage presence. She expressed her shock and grief at his untimely passing, and sent her heartfelt sympathy to his family and loved ones.

The former Fifth Harmony member, who made music with Liam in 2018, expressed gratitude to the late singer for “all the joy you brought my friends and me.”

Meeting one of my favorite performers as a child and having him be so nice to me was a really special experience,” she shared on Instagram. “It’s heartbreaking that he’s passed away so young.

The former contestant on *The X Factor U.S.* said that Liam Payne and the band One Direction were a big inspiration for Fifth Harmony, the group she was in with Camila Cabello, Normani, Dinah Jane, and Lauren Jauregui.

She shared on X that Liam was a truly special and bright person. She said she’ll always cherish the memories they made together, and she’s thankful for every moment she spent with him. She added that their connection wouldn’t have happened without One Direction, and expressed her love for him.

The DJ shared a heartfelt message on Instagram on October 17th, saying how much they would miss their dear friend. They found it incredibly hard to express their feelings, stating they couldn’t believe their friend was gone. They reminisced about the wonderful times they shared, both on and off stage, describing their friend as a true legend and a genuinely kind person with a golden heart. They ended by saying they would deeply miss their friend.

The band expressed their sadness over the passing of Liam Payne, sharing their condolences with his family, friends, and fans on Instagram.

Justin Timberlake, formerly of *NSYNC, posted a heartfelt message on Instagram remembering Liam, with whom he recently collaborated on the song “Teardrops.” He wrote, “I will miss you my friend—my heart is with your family.”

Luke Hemmings, Michael Clifford, Ashton Irwin, and Calum Hood announced on social media on October 18th that they were deeply saddened.

They continued, expressing their love for Liam and sharing that he’d made a lasting impact on their lives. They were deeply grateful for his belief in them, something they would always remember.

The boy band expressed how honored they were to start their musical journey with Liam, adding that he’s always been a very kind person.

I’ll never forget the incredible spark he had – we all saw it, always. It absolutely breaks my heart that the world could dim such a bright light. I really hope, wherever he is, he’s still singing his heart out.

The influencer, who dated Liam briefly in 2022, shared her condolences in an Instagram Story. 

“I’m sorry this happened to you, will forever love and miss you,” Aliana wrote. “Rest in paradise.”

The singer, who collaborated with Liam on the song “For You,” shared their grief on X (formerly Twitter) on October 17th, saying they were heartbroken by the news. They remembered him as a genuinely kind person and spoke fondly of their time working together, both on and off stage. The singer expressed their condolences to his family and loved ones, and noted that their song “For You” now holds a deeper meaning. They ended with a message of rest in peace.

The former host of *The Late Late Show*, a longtime friend and fan of the British boy band, shared a message on Instagram.

It’s incredibly painful to speak about Liam as if he’s gone. He was a truly kind and loving person, and I’ll always cherish the time I had with him. I’m thinking of his family right now.

On October 17th, Harry Styles’ sister shared One Direction’s statement on her Instagram, and also wrote a personal message expressing her sympathy for Liam’s family and all those affected by his passing.

As someone who’s been around the music industry a while, and had the pleasure of mentoring One Direction on *The X Factor*, I was really saddened to hear about Liam’s passing. I shared my thoughts on Instagram on October 18th – it was a tough moment, and I wanted to express my condolences publicly.

Robbie wrote, ‘What a handsome, talented boy.’ He continued, expressing how tragic and painful this loss is for his friends, family, and fans—and it seems, the entire world is feeling it too.

The members of the boy band—Nick Carter, AJ McLean, Brian Littrell, Kevin Richardson, and Howie Dorough—expressed their sympathy.

It’s hard to put into words how we’re all feeling right now, and it seems like many others feel the same way,” the statement on X (formerly Twitter) read. “We send our deepest sympathies to Liam’s family, friends, and fans everywhere. Rest peacefully.

The Backstreet Boys singer, who is a judge on the upcoming Netflix show ‘Building the Band’ with Liam, shared a statement saying he was heartbroken over the loss and deeply sympathized with those affected.

We connected instantly and quickly became close, sharing stories, laughter, and experiences from our lives. He added, “I’m so sad to see you go. You were a truly bright and wonderful person, and I always enjoyed being around you at work!”

AJ expressed his disbelief and sadness at the loss, saying, “I can’t believe you’re gone.” He encouraged the deceased to continue shining and sharing his music, and offered his heartfelt sympathy to his family, friends, and bandmates, finishing with a message of love.

In an Instagram Story, the singer of “See You Again” wrote that Liam was “always very kind to him.”

I was so lucky to be one of the first big artists I ever worked with. I’ll never forget working with him on ‘Bedroom Floor’ back in 2017, and I honestly can’t believe he’s gone. It’s just heartbreaking.

 

“I’m absolutely heartbroken,” the *X Factor* runner-up shared on Instagram. “We always enjoyed each other’s company, even if it was just a quick chat. We’d usually end up talking about how great his hair always looked, our shared admiration for David Beckham, or reminiscing about our time on *The X Factor* and the tour we did together.”

The musician expressed deep sadness over the loss of Liam, saying they shared similar passions and dreams. He was heartbroken to hear of Liam’s young passing and sent his condolences to Liam’s family, especially his son Bear. He shared his thoughts were with them during this difficult time, and wished Liam rest in peace.

The “Without Me” singer shared a lengthy Tumblr post to commemorate the late One Direction member. 

I was a huge One Direction fan growing up, and it’s really painful to grieve someone you admired so much, especially when you later connected with them as a colleague. It’s hard when you’re mourning the feeling someone gave you or the memories you have, rather than the person themselves, as people inevitably change. I see a lot of you are going through that now, and I completely understand.

And Halsey finished by sharing a fond memory of Liam. 

She explained that she had bought a house that Liam used to own, and while there were stories about it being haunted, he’d convinced her it wasn’t true. She believes ghosts aren’t tied to places, but rather follow us through our memories and emotions. As a parent, artist, and admirer of his work, she’s deeply saddened by his sudden passing and sends her condolences to his family, friends, and fans.

The *Vampire Diaries* actor shared on Instagram that they were heartbroken to hear about the death of their friend, Liam, calling it a terrible tragedy and saying he was far too young to die.

The rapper who collaborated with Liam on his hit song “Strip That Down” posted a tribute on Instagram on October 16th, writing “Rest in Paradise.”

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2025-10-09 01:21