Former One Direction bandmate Zayn Malik has shared a deeply emotional message following the tragic death of Liam Payne, who died in Buenos Aires on Wednesday.
The news of Payne’s death, was confirmed by Pablo Policicchio, communications director for the Buenos Aires Security Ministry, to “PEOPLE” that Payne “jumped from the balcony” of his third-floor hotel room at the Casa Sur Hotel.
In a post shared on social media, Malik expressed his grief, writing, “Liam, I have found myself talking out loud to you, hoping you can hear me. I can't help but think selfishly that there were 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.”
Malik also reminisced about their bond during their time in One Direction, adding, “When I was missing home as a 17-year-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.”
He went on to describe Payne as headstrong, opinionated, and unafraid to stand up for what he believed in, “Even though we butted heads because of this a few times, I always secretly respected you for it.”
Reflecting on their shared musical journey, Malik paid tribute to Payne’s talent, saying, “When it came to the music, Liam, you were the most qualified in every sense”.
“I 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.”
Malik also said, “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.”
Payne’s death has left fans and former colleagues devastated. His former band, One Direction, which included Malik, Niall Horan, Harry Styles, and Louis Tomlinson, rose to fame in 2010 after competing on The X Factor.
The group quickly became one of the best-selling boy bands of all time before going on an indefinite hiatus in 2016.
As fans and friends mourn the loss of the singer, Malik’s words capture the deep sense of loss felt by those who knew Payne, “I will cherish all the memories I have with you in my heart forever.”
IOL