Liam Payne, a former One Direction band artist, was found dead after a tragic fall from the third floor of a hotel in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Many are speculating that his death was a suicide due to the controversy with his ex-fiancée and underlying mental health issues.
Liam Payne was known to abuse substances. He was said to drink on stage at his own concerts to “manage stress.” His former band members also recently spoken out about his “toxicity” throughout the band’s time together.
“As a One Direction fan, I know deep down that Liam Payne was a horrible person, but the child in me is grieving his loss,” says Taylor Unkart, a fan since 2012.
One Direction was originally formed on the UK show, The X Factor. The band consisted of five boys: Harry Styles, Louis Tomlinson, Niall Horan, Zayn Malik, and of course, Liam Payne. The band was placed together by the judges at the time – five strangers, who grew to be friends, making music together.
Payne claimed he was the “leader” of the iconic boy band, yet he seemed to cause the most controversy. In many interviews, fans heard Payne talk down on his former bandmate, Zayn Malik. He seemed to downplay Malik’s struggles, causing tension on social media, leading his audience to believe they didn’t quite get along.
Prior to his death, there was also major controversy over the book Looking Forward by Maya Henry, Payne’s ex-fiancée. Henry did come out and say that the book was fiction but was “inspired by true events,” which alluded to her former relationship with the pop star.
The book follows a character named Mallory, who falls in love with an ex-boy band member. Sound familiar? The book details the mental abuse of a relationship. Many sensitive topics were introduced including eating disorders, abortions, violence, substance abuse, and physical abuse.
Many celebrities have come out following Payne’s death with their remorse. All our hearts go out to his family, and his seven-year-old son, Bear, who lost his father. If anyone you know or love is struggling, or even you are, please reach out and get the help you need. If you are experiencing an abusive relationship, you’re not alone.
National Suicide Hotline: 988
National Domestic Violence Hotline: 800-799-7233
