Former One Direction members react to Liam Payne's death

Former One Direction members have expressed their grief over the sudden loss of Liam Payne, who died aged 31 after falling from a hotel balcony in Buenos Aires, Argentina.

Initially, the former group's account made a statement on Instagram, which stated:

"We are completely devastated by the news of Liam's death. When the time comes and everyone is ready, we will talk more. For now, we will take some time to grieve and process the loss of our dearly loved brother. The memories we shared with him will be cherished forever. For now, our thoughts are with his family, friends, and fans who loved him with us. We will miss him terribly. We love you, Liam, Louis, Zayn, Niall and Harry."

Afterwards, former members also expressed their condolences and shock. Louis Tomlinson, in a post on Instagram, expressed that he lost a brother.

"Liam was someone I was in touch with every day. He was such a positive, gallant and kind soul. I first met Liam when he was 16 years old, while I was 18 years old," he said, adding that he was amazed by the late singer's voice.

"Liam was a fantastic lyricist, with a wonderful sense of melody. We often talked about going back into the studio, trying to recreate and write again with the chemistry we built as a band (referred to 1D). Liam, in my opinion, was the liveliest part of One Direction. His experience at a young age, his perfect timing, stage presence, your gift for writing...the list goes on. Thanks for shaping us, Liam."

He also wrote a direct message to Liam, saying:

“A message for you, Liam, if you can hear me. I feel incredibly lucky to have had you in my life, but the idea of ??saying goodbye is hurting me a lot. I'm so grateful that we've gotten even closer since the band, talking on the phone for hours, reminiscing about the hundreds of fantastic memories we've had together. I wish I could share the stage with you again, but it wasn't said. I want to tell you that if Bear (Liam's son) needs me, I will be the uncle he needs in his life and tell him stories about how great his father was. I wish I had the chance to say "goodbye" to you and show you once again how much I loved you. Payno, my son, one of my best friends, my brother, I love you friend. Sleep peacefully".

Zayn Malik, on the other hand, published some photos from the group's participation in "X Factor", where he wrote:

“Liam, I've caught myself thinking about you a lot, hoping you're listening. I can't help but selfishly think that there were so many conversations we needed to have in our lives. I have never thanked you for supporting me through some of the hardest times of my life. When I was 17 years old and I missed home, you were always by my side and with your positive outlook and your smile, you let me know that you were my friend and I felt loved," he said.

Further, it continued:

"Even though you were younger than me, you were always more responsible than me," adding that Liam didn't really care and told people when they were wrong. "When it comes to music, Liam, you were the most qualified in every sense."

"I lost a brother who left us and I can't explain what I would give to hug you one more time and say goodbye properly and tell you how much I loved and respected you . I will cherish the memories I have with you in my heart forever and there are no words to justify or explain how I feel right now. I am devastated. I hope that wherever you are now, you are well, at peace and know how much we love you. I love you, brother."

Harry Styles, in a statement, said: "I am truly devastated by the loss of Liam. His greatest joy was making people happy and it was an honor to be by his side. Liam lived openly, with his heart in his hand. He had an energy for life that was contagious. He was warm, supportive and extremely loving. The years we spent together will forever be among the happiest years of my life. I will always miss you my dear friend.

Payne was found dead after falling from the third floor of the hotel. He was in Argentina to attend a concert by former band member Niall Horan. 

Payne joined One Direction at the age of 16. During that period, he often spoke about his battle with alcohol and the drugs he was taking. He has also faced suicidal thoughts during the band's tours.

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