Louis Tomlinson, Zayn Malik, Niall Horan, and Harry Styles have issued a joint statement in light of their One Direction bandmate Liam Payne’s death.
Liam died on Wednesday at the age of 31 in Buenos Aires, Argentina. According to the Associated Press, Buenos Aires police said Liam died after falling from a third-floor hotel balcony.
“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,” the statement, which was posted to the band’s Instagram page, began. “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,” the statement continued. “For now, our thoughts are with his family, his friends, and the fans who loved him alongside us. We will miss him terribly.”
They ended their statement by saying, “We love you Liam.”
Louis and Zayn both issued individual statements on Thursday.
“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,” Louis began his statement on Instagram, noting he met Liam at 18 when Liam was 16.
One Direction was formed in 2010 on the British TV singing competition series The X-Factor after the five singers, who had auditioned separately, were brought together to form a boy band.
Louis recalled being “instantly amazed” by Liam’s voice before getting to know “the kind brother” he’d longed all his life for.
Calling Liam “the most vital part of One Direction,” Louis praised the singer’s experience, pitch, stage presence, and writing before issuing a message directly to Liam.
Louis also added of Liam’s son Bear, “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.”
Zayn also issued his statement on Instagram, beginning by noting he’s found himself “talking out loud” to Liam following his death.
He recalled Liam’s “positive outlook,” “reassuring smile,” and friendliness during their early days in the band when he’d be missing home.
Zayn admitted to “secretly” respecting Liam for butting heads with him on occasion before praising Liam as “the most qualified” regarding music.
Noting he “lost a brother” with Liam’s death, Zayn said he’d like to give him one last hug, say goodbye “properly,” and let him know he “loved and respected [him] dearly.”
“I hope that wherever you are right now you are good and are at peace and you know how loved you are,” Zayn ended his statement saying. “Love you bro.”
