Simon Cowell is paying tribute to Liam Payne after the One Direction singer's death at age 31.
One Direction's co-creator Cowell, 65 — who helped launch the band's career on The X Factor U.K. back in 2010 — shared a statement to Instagram on Friday (Oct. 18, 2024).
“You never really know how you feel about someone until a moment like this happens,” he wrote. “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.”
“This is so difficult to put into words right now,” added Cowell. “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?”
He explained, “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.”
To conclude the note, the former American Idol judge spoke about One Direction. “I always thought of the 5 of you in the band as brothers. And regarding their messages today I believe you were,” wrote Cowell. “And now Liam, I can see the effect you had on so many people. Because you left too soon.”
“Rest in peace my friend,” he said. “And I am sending my love, thoughts and prayers to your family.”
Read Simon's full statement in his Instagram post below.
Plus, Cooper Koch, Jay Cutler, Kate Cassidy, Alexis Bellino news, and more! Keep scrolling to check out today's entertainment and pop culture news.
QUICKIES
- Liam Payne‘s heartbroken dad was spotted in Buenos Aires for the first time since his son's tragic death after making the trip from the UK to Argentina. [TMZ]
- Liam Payne’s girlfriend, Kate Cassidy, has spoken out on the death of the former One Direction member. “Thank you for all of the kind words and love that has been sent my way. I have been at a complete loss,” she posted on her Instagram Story Friday. “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.” She then addressed her “angel” directly. “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,” she emotionally wrote. [Billboard]
- Andy Cohen denied Jennifer Aydin’s claim that she was asked to return to The Real Housewives of New Jersey for Season 15. “I wish her well.” [Page Six]
- Like just about everyone else, Ryan Murphy would love to work with Taylor Swift. [Billboard]
- Former football pro Jay Cutler was arrested for a DUI and gun possession following a car accident in Franklin, Tennessee. [TMZ]
- It looks as if Jeff Lewis‘ Flipping Out is getting a reboot at Bravo. [Reality Tea]
- So are Meryl Streep and Martin Short dating, or what? [The Cut]
- Alexis Bellino doubles down on Shannon Beador‘s lawsuit claims: “I have nothing to do with either.” Well, sweetie, your behavior says otherwise. [Reality Tea]
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Last update on 2024-11-06 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API