Nicole Scherzinger, known for helping create the popular boy band One Direction on The X Factor, shared a touching message after the sudden death of singer Liam Payne. Payne, 31, reportedly fell from a balcony on Oct. 16 while staying at the CasaSur Palermo Hotel in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Sources say that early autopsy results found several substances in his system at the time of his death.
Scherzinger, 46, took to Instagram on Friday, Oct. 25, to honor Payne with a heartfelt message and two photos of herself, Payne, and singer Kelly Rowland. She, Rowland, and Payne were recently set to work together on a new Netflix series called Building the Band, where they would serve as judges and mentors. In her tribute, Scherzinger reflected on her longtime connection with Payne, remembering how she helped guide him and the group through their journey to global fame.
“Dear Liam, I will forever cherish and treasure the time we shared together, from fifteen years ago when One Direction was born, right up until just a few weeks ago,” Scherzinger wrote. She added, “It was such a blessing to get to work with you recently. We shared the same love and passion for music, and I will forever remember the meaningful and joyful conversations we had.”
Scherzinger’s message showed just how much she admired Payne, calling him a “kind heart, sweet soul,” who brought happiness and laughter to those around him. She ended with a sad but loving goodbye, writing, “I will ‘miss you,’ my friend, and carry you in my heart. My thoughts and prayers are with your family.”
In a recent interview, Andrew Lloyd Webber, the famous composer who worked with Scherzinger on her Broadway musical Sunset Blvd., shared another emotional detail. He revealed that Scherzinger had been texting with Payne on the day he passed away. She heard the tragic news on the evening of Oct. 16, right before she was set to perform on stage. Webber praised Scherzinger’s strength, saying that even though she was heartbroken, she still managed to go on with the show.
“I mean she is an amazing, amazing woman,” Webber said. “She is without any question one of the finest performers I’ve ever worked with.” He shared that her dedication to her craft and her professionalism were truly remarkable.
Fans and loved ones everywhere are mourning the loss of Payne, who first won hearts as a member of One Direction. Formed on The X Factor in 2010, One Direction quickly rose to worldwide fame, and Payne was beloved for his voice and personality. Over the years, Payne went on to release solo music and recently looked forward to his role on Building the Band, a new project with Scherzinger and Rowland.
Scherzinger’s tribute to Payne is just one of many messages that remember him for his kindness, humor, and love for music. Her words remind fans and friends alike of the joy and light that Payne brought to the world.
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