Simon Cowell, the mastermind behind One Direction, has opened up about his heartfelt final encounter with Liam Payne, who tragically passed away after falling from his hotel balcony on October 16th. The music world has been left in mourning, and Cowell's touching tribute paints a picture of the singer's kindness, talent, and the cherished moments they shared.
Just two days after the shocking death of the 31-year-old musician, Cowell penned an emotional message to honor Payne's memory, sharing his reflections on their relationship. Cowell, who was instrumental in creating One Direction, spoke fondly of Payne and his journey from a young contestant on "The X Factor" to an international pop sensation. "You never really know how you feel about someone until a moment like this happens," Cowell wrote in his Instagram post. "Liam, I am truly devastated. Heartbroken. And I feel empty. And I want you to know how much love and respect I have for you. Every tear I have shed is a memory of you."
Simon Cowell honors Liam Payne in new post:
“Liam, I am devastated. Heartbroken. And I feel empty. And I want you to know how much love and respect I have for you. Every tear I have shed is a memory of you.” pic.twitter.com/Q1siNNtXS0 — Pop Crave (@PopCrave) October 18, 2024
Cowell first met Payne in 2008 when the singer auditioned for "The X Factor" at the age of 14. Though Payne didn't progress that year, he returned in 2010 and was chosen by Cowell to join the supergroup that would become One Direction. The band, featuring Payne, Harry Styles, Zayn Malik, Louis Tomlinson, and Niall Horan, went on to become one of the best-selling boy bands of all time. "I had to tell you when you were 14 that this wasn't your time," Cowell added. "And we both made a promise that we would meet again. A lot of people would have given up. You didn't. You came back, and within months, the whole world knew Liam."
In 2023, Payne visited Cowell, not for a business meeting but simply to reconnect. Cowell fondly remembered the encounter, describing it as a time to reminisce about their journey together. "You came to see me last year. Not for a meeting. Just to sit and talk. And we reminisced about all of the fun times we had together. And how proud you were to be a dad," Cowell recalled. He spoke of Payne's love for his seven-year-old son, Bear, whom he shared with ex-girlfriend Cheryl Cole. "I have met your son, Bear. He has your smile and that twinkle in his eye that you have. And he will be so proud of everything you achieved. And how you achieved it."
Payne's sudden death has left his former bandmates and fans in shock. One Direction released a statement on social media expressing their grief: "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 memories we shared with him will be treasured forever. For now, our thoughts are with his family, his friends, and the fans who loved him alongside us. We will miss him terribly. We love you, Liam."
Cowell also reflected on Payne's devotion to his fans, noting how the singer always took the time to interact with those who supported him. "You never forgot the fans. I watched you spending so much time with people who had wanted to meet you. You really cared," Cowell said. He emphasized the unique bond shared by One Direction, describing the five members as brothers. "I always thought of the five of you in the band as brothers," Cowell added. "And reading their messages today, I believe you were. And now Liam, I can see the effect you had on so many people. Because you left us too soon."
Payne's impact on the music world was profound. After forming One Direction on "The X Factor," the band released five studio albums, each topping charts around the globe, and embarked on four world tours. Known for hits like "What Makes You Beautiful," "Story of My Life," and "Night Changes," the band captured the hearts of millions. By 2016, One Direction announced an indefinite hiatus, allowing each member to pursue solo projects. Payne went on to release his own music, gaining success with tracks like "Strip That Down" and "Stack It Up."
Despite the band's split, the members remained close, and Payne's death has left a significant void in their lives. Cowell concluded his tribute by sharing how Payne's untimely passing has affected him. "This is so difficult to put in words right now. I went outside today, and I thought about so many times we had together," Cowell said. "Rest in peace, my friend. And I am sending my love, thoughts, and prayers to your family."
