Tributes pour in from around the world after Liam Payne's tragic passing

Following the tragic and heartbreaking news that singer Liam Payne has sadly passed away at the age of 31, after falling from his hotel balcony in Argentina, tributes have poured in from around the world for the former One Direction star.

Liam, who leaves behind his seven-year-old son Bear Grey Payne, sadly died on Wednesday 16th October, and was in Argentina for a holiday, where he also attended the concert of his former bandmate Niall Horan.

News of his shock passing first broke late last night (16th October), when Alberto Crescenti, head of the state emergency medical system, said on Argentina's Todo Noticias TV channel that Liam fell into a courtyard of the Casa Sur Hotel in the Palermo neighbourhood of Argentina's capital.

Family tribute

Liam's beloved family released a statement through a spokeswoman on Thursday 17th October, revealing they are heartbroken at the news.

It said: "We are heartbroken. Liam will forever live in our hearts and we'll remember him for his kind, funny and brave soul. We are supporting each other the best we can as a family and ask for privacy and space at this awful time."

One Direction's tributes to Liam Payne

On the evening of Thursday 17th October, Harry, Louis, Niall and Zayn released a joint statement about Liam's shock passing.

It read: '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.'

They signed it off with their names: 'Louis, Zayn, Niall and Harry'.

The boys also individually shared tributes to Liam, with Louis Tomlinson writing: 'I am beyond devastated to be writing this but yesterday I lost a brother. Liam was somebody I looked up to everyday, such a positive, funny, and kind soul.

'I first met Liam when he was 16 and I was 18, I was instantly amazed by his voice but more importantly as time went on I got a chance to see the kind brother I’d longed all my life for.

'Liam was an incredible song writer with a great sense of melody, we often spoke of getting back in the studio together to try and recreate the writing chemistry we had built up in the band.

'And for the record, Liam was in my opinion the most vital part of One Direction. His experience from a young age, his perfect pitch, his stage presence, his gift for writing. The list goes on. Thank you for shaping us Liam.

'A message to you Liam if you’re listening,

'I feel beyond lucky to have had you in my life but I’m really struggling with the idea of saying goodbye. I’m so grateful that we got even closer since the band, speaking on the phone for hours , reminiscing about all the thousands of amazing memories we had together is a luxury I thought I’d have with you for life. I would have loved to share the stage with you again but it wasn’t to be.

'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 chance to say goodbye and tell you one more time how much I loved you.

'Payno, my boy, one of my best friends, my brother, I love you mate. Sleep well X'. (sic)

Harry Styles 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.

'Liam lived wide open, his heart on his sleeve, he had an energy for life that was infectious. He was warm, supportive, and incredibly loving. The years we spent together will forever remain among the most cherished years of my life. I will miss him always, my lovely friend.

'My heart breaks for Karen, Geoff, Nicole and Ruth, his son Bear, and all those around the world who knew and loved him, as I did'.

Former One Direction member Zayn also shared a photo alongside Liam, writing: 'Love You Bro ❤️', before continuing: 'Liam, I have found myself talking out loud to you, hoping you can hear me, I can't help but think selfishly that there was so many more conversations for us to have in our lives.

'I never got to thank you for supporting me through some of the most difficult times in my life. When I was missing home as a 17 yr 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.

'Even though you were younger than me you were always more sensible than me, you were headstrong, opinionated, and gave no f---- about telling people when they were wrong. Even though we butted heads because of this a few times, I always secretly respected you for it.

'When it came to the music Liam, you were the most qualified in every sense. I knew nothing in comparison, was a novice child with no experience and you were already a professional. was always happy to know, no matter what happened on stage we could always rely on you to know which way to steer the ship next.

'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, there is no words that justify or explain how I feel right now other than beyond devastated.

'I hope that wherever you are right now you are good and are at peace A and you know how loved you are.

'Love you bro'.

On Friday 18th October, Niall shared a photo of the pair from their younger days in the band.

He wrote: 'I'm absolutely about the passing of my amazing friend, Liam. It just doesn't feel real.

'Liam had an energy for life and a passion for work that was infectious. He was the brightest in every room and always made everyone feel happy and secure.

'All the laughs we had over the years, sometimes about the simplest of things, keep coming to mind through the sadness. We got to live out our wildest dreams together and I will cherish every moment we had forever. The bond and friendship we had doesn't happen often in a lifetime.

'I feel so fortunate that I got to see him recently. I sadly didn't know that after saying goodbye and hugging him that evening, I would be saying goodbye forever. It's heartbreaking.

'My love and condolences go out to Geoff, Karen, Ruth, Nicola and of course, his son Bear.

'Thank you for everything, Payno.

'Love you brother.

'Nialler'. (sic)

Liam's girlfriend Kate Cassidy's tribute

On Friday 18th October, Liam's girlfriend Kate Cassidy shared an emotional tribute to the late singer, who she began dating back in 2022. Kate wrote: 'Thank you for all of the kind words and love that has been sent my way.

'I have been at a complete loss. Nothing about the past few days have felt real.

'I ask and pray that you'll give me the grace and space to navigate this in private.

'Liam, my angel. You are everything. I want you to know I loved you unconditionally and completely. I will continue to love you for the rest of my life. I love you Liam.'

Tributes to Liam Payne

As well as his army of fans, famous faces from the world of music, TV and entertainment have paid public tributes to Liam, including the likes of Dermot O'Leary, Olly Murs, Jade Thirlwall, Leigh-Anne Pinnock and Rylan Clark.

Former X Factor host Dermot O'Leary wrote: 'The worst news. I remember him as a 14 year old turning up to audition on The X Factor, and blowing us away singing Sinatra. He just loved to sing.

'He was always a joy, had time for everyone, polite, grateful, and was always humble.

'Sending love and prayers to his family. D'. (sic)

The X Factor's official page wrote: 'We are heartbroken by the sad passing of Liam Payne.

'He was immensely talented and, as part of One Direction, Liam will leave a lasting legacy on the music industry and fans around the world.

'Our thoughts are with his friends, family and all who loved him'. (sic)

X Factor judge and One Direction founder Simon Cowell wrote: 'You never really know how you feel about someone until a moment like this happens.

'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.

'This is so difficult to put in words right now. I went outside today, and I thought about so many times we had together. I wanted to let you know what I would always say to the thousands of people who would always ask me. What is Liam like? And I would tell them you were kind, funny, sweet, thoughtful, talented, humble, focused. And how much you loved music. And how much love you genuinely had for the fans.

'I had to tell you when you were 14 that this wasn't your time. 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. And you never forgot the fans. I watched you spending so much time with people who had wanted to meet you. You really cared.

'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. After you left, I was reminded that you were still the sweet, kind boy I met all of those years ago. I have met your son, Bear. He has your smile and that twinkle in his eyes you have.

'And he will be so proud of everything you achieved. And how you achieved it.

'I always thought of the 5 of you in the band as brothers. 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.

'Rest in peace my friend.

'And I am sending my love, thoughts and prayers to your family.

'Simon X'.

Singer Olly Murs shared a photo alongside Liam of the pair laughing, writing: 'This news is devastating, am lost for words 😣 we always had a good laugh when we saw each other, sometimes the catch ups were only short and sweet but when we did it was mostly about how annoyingly good his hair always looked, or our love for Becks, the old XF days and the tour we shared together.

'Liam shared the same passions as me, the same dreams so to see his life now end so young hits hard, I’m truly gutted and devastated for his Family and of course his son Bear losing a dad x am thinking of them! RIP Liam 🙏🏻😣'. (sic)

Little Mix and solo star Jade Thirlwall shared an image of herself alongside Liam, when the pair were younger, writing: 'The news of Liam's passing is truly heartbreaking. Sending so much love to his family, friends, fans, loved ones, and all who knew him. ❤️‍🩹

'We fell out of touch as the years went by, but back in 2008 he was the first friend I made in this industry. Both of us so young, so ambitious, both hoping we'd 'make it'. I hope you are at peace now. ♥️'

Little Mix singer Leigh-Anne also wrote: 'This is just heartbreaking 💔 every time we crossed paths he was so lovely and humble. I'll never forget seeing One Direction on tour for the first time and being instantly drawn to Liam's stage presence you could just tell he was made for that stage ❤️

'Gone way too soon 🥺 sending all my love and deepest condolences to his family and everyone close to him. 🙏'. (sic)

Ed Sheeran shared a tribute to his friend, writing: 'At a loss for words. My thoughts are with his family and loved ones, every memory I have with him is a great one, just such a heartbreaking situation. Be kind. X'. (sic)

JLS star Marvin Humes shared a photo alongside Liam, writing: 'I first met Liam in 2008 with the JLS boys whilst auditioning for X Factor..he was 14 years old..we instantly clicked and looked at him as a little brother..that year it worked out for us but not for him and then 2 years later he went back to audition and One Direction was born..the rest is history..

'Absolutely heartbroken by the tragic news..Liam you wanted to be a global superstar and you did it bro..just can’t believe that things have ended this way..it’s shocking..my thoughts and prayers are with all your family and friends brother..RIP 🖤'. (sic)

As well as Marvin, the official JLS Instagram page also paid tribute, writing: 'We are so shocked and saddened to hear the news this morning that Liam Payne has passed. We first met on the Xfactor in 2008 and we thought we’d share the experience together but it wasn’t to be. Liam was like our original 5th member and we always knew he’d go on to achieve great things.

'To have lost a brother of ours so young is devastating and we will fondly remember the joy and the hope and the happiness he brought to so many people’s lives. Our hearts go out to his mum and family, his little boy and all those around the world who will miss him so very deeply. Gone way too soon brother, Rest in Peace'. (sic)

Boyband McFly wrote on X: 'We’re shocked and extremely sad to wake up to the news of Liam Payne’s death. Our thoughts and love are with his family and friends at such a difficult time ❤️'. (sic)

Charlie Puth simply uploaded a photo alongside Liam.

Rita Ora, who worked with Liam on the track 'For You', posted: 'I’m devastated 💔 He had the kindest soul, I will never forget. I loved working with him so much - he was just such a joy to be around on and off stage. This tragic news breaks my heart. Sending all my love and prayers to his family and loved ones. Our song For You takes on a whole new meaning for me now. R.I.P 🕊️'. (sic)

TV presenter and former X Factor contestant Rylan Clark took to X to pay his respects. He wrote: 'Extremely sad news. V tragic and so young. RIP Liam x'. (sic)

Presenter Laura Whitmore shared a photo of herself interviewing Liam on the BRITs red carpet. She wrote: 'The one direction lads first came into MTV when they stole the hearts of the nation on XFactor. All talented in their own right, all optimistic and excited about what was ahead. Bumped into Liam over the years many times on different shows and out and about and he was always so lovely and giving of his time.

'This particular Brits always sticks with me ,he was there with Louis and he was beaming as I could see he was very loved up with someone backstage. Was genuinely so nice to see that excitement. Sometimes we forget people in the public eye are real people with real feelings. He was a Popstar but more importantly someone’s son, father - loved by so many who are left heartbroken. My thoughts with his loved ones. I can’t believe it, but also I can. Which is devastating'. (sic)

American choreographer Brian Friedman, who worked with Liam during his time in One Direction and on The X Factor, shared an old photo of the pair together.

He wrote: 'It doesn’t even seem real that Liam has passed… feels like just yesterday he stepped in front of me in the X Factor room for coaching at Boot Camp in 2010. He was so nervous, yet so driven. There was no other option for him than to make it to the live shows. Little did he know that not only would he make it but he would be thrust into what became the biggest boy band in history called One Direction and his life would forever be changed. I only hope that he was proud of his success and knows how much he was loved. Sending you love beyond Liam ❤️🙏🏼 You will be missed'. (sic)

The BRIT Awards also paid their respects, sharing a black and white photo of Liam at the 2019 ceremony, alongside the caption: 'We are incredibly sad to learn of the tragic passing of Liam Payne. Our thoughts and prayers are with his friends and family at this time'. (sic)

Steven Bartlett, who spoke candidly with Liam on The Diary Of A CEO back in 2021, wrote on X: I cannot believe what I'm reading about Liam Payne. Absolutely heartbreaking'. (sic)

Little Mix singer Jade Thirwall wrote on her Instagram Story: 'The news of Liam's passing is truly heartbreaking. Sending so much love to his family, friends, fans, loves ones, all all who knew him.

'We fell out of touch as the years went by, but back in 2008 he was the first friend I made in this industry. Both of us so young, so ambition, both hoping we'd 'make it'. I hope you are at peace now'. (sic)

Zedd, who worked with Liam on his solo single 'Get Low', shared a number of photos alongside Liam on the set of their music video, with the caption: '💔'.

Socialite Paris Hilton wrote on X: 'So upsetting to hear the news of @LiamPayne passing😢 Sending love and condolences to his family & loved ones. 🙏 RIP my friend🥺'. (sic)

Singer Cher Lloyd, who was on the same series of The X Factor, also shared an old photo alongside Liam, writing: 'From being on the show together, visiting each others homes while filming, going on tour together and watching you achieve your dreams. I’ll cherish the memories made and the laughs we had. My thoughts are with your family and friends, with everyone who loves you. My heart is breaking for your Son Bear. Rest in peace Liam.' (sic)

The Wanted singer Max George revealed he was heartbroken at the news, writing on social media: 'Devastated.

'Liam was an unbelievably supportive during one of the most difficult times in my life. I will never forget that.

'My thoughts are with his family, friends and fans at this horrendous time.

'Rest in peace Liam. Max x'. (sic)

Boyzone singer Mikey Graham wrote: 'Rip Liam Payne. Such tragic news. I think it would be a wise move for record companies to have psychologists on their books from now on in his memory as a duty of care for the vulnerability of their young talent. Fame can be very damaging especially in today’s world. Lots of money. Nobody to help. Lots of yes people. Nobody honest🙏🏻'. (sic)

Venue Wembley Stadium, a place where One Direction sold-out on numerous occasions, shared a photo of the band, writing: 'We’re incredibly saddened to hear of the passing of Liam Payne.

'Our thoughts are with Liam’s family, friends and fans 🕊️ 💔'. (sic)

X Factor stars Jedward wrote: 'RIP Liam Payne 💔 condolences to friends and family', before writing in another post: 'Sending strength to Cheryl and his son Bear ❤️ and all the One direction Family. RIP @LiamPayne'. (sic)

All On The Board created a touching tribute to Liam, captioning the post with: 'Rest in peace Liam Payne. You will be forever loved, always missed and never forgotten. Sending so much love to those who loved you, your family, your friends, your One Direction brothers and the Directioners, and so much love to your son Bear'. (sic)

Love Island star and influencer Molly-Mae Hague shared an image of her and Liam, writing: 'I haven't been able to stop thinking about the most heartbreaking news of Liam's passing. It has utterly shocked me.

'I met Liam a few times and he was such a genuine and kind person- always making the effort to talk to me and ask how I was. I just can't stop thinking about his family, his son, girlfriend and friends- my heart aches for them.

'Rest in peace Liam. 🤍 '

Hits Radio presenter Tom Green shared a photo alongside Liam, writing: 'such devastating news this morning, not every guest shows up and gives 110% to every interview, but Liam always did… he was fun, charming, engaging, energetic, honest and candid - every single time! a total star from day one. gonna miss ya bro @liampayne 💕'. (sic)

Giovanni Fletcher wrote: 'So shocked and saddened to hear the news. A little boy has lost his father. A mother has lost her son. When we see someone in the public eye it can be easy to forget the very real roles and connections they have in their personal lives. I can’t stop thinking about those people.

'That said, when you have success on the scale 1D and Liam managed to create, news like this is going to affect so many people. It’s just utterly devastating.

'Thinking back to the start of Liam’s career and meeting him and the guys backstage at the X-Factor. They had such hopes and dreams, and boy did they deliver.

'Sending love to Liam’s family and friends, and to the fans who will be hugely affected by this. Xx'. (sic)

Former X Factor judge Sharon Osbourne wrote: 'Liam, my heart aches. We all let you down. Where was this industry when you needed them? You were just a kid when you entered one of the toughest industries in the world. Who was in your corner? Rest in peace my friend 🕊️ @liampayne'. (sic)

Liam's ex-girlfriend, dancer Danielle Peazer, who he met in 2010 during The X Factor days, said on Instagram: 'Despite being aware of your struggles over the years, I hoped and prayed that this day would never come. But now we're all facing the reality of living a life without your presence.

'Our relationship may have ended back in 2013, but that seemed to be just the start of our story. The things we went through and, experienced from then all the way until last year could be described as unique to some and misunderstood by others, but I think deep down we always knew we'd have some sort of connection forever, no matter where our individual lives took us.

'It took a little longer for you to figure out the person you wanted to be in order to be your happiest, but whilst most of us have our teens and twenties to learn about ourselves, you spent those years giving more to the world than you ever needed to. I wish you knew that you were always more than enough for this world without having to search for a role to play just to please others.

'I'm sorry your story didn't end differently, and I'm sorry you didn't ever get to share more of your magic with the world.'

Our thoughts are with Liam's family and friends at this sad time. ❤️

Remembering the famous faces we've sadly lost in 2024:

If you are affected by this story, you can call Samaritans for help on 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.org.

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