Liam Payne: Family criticizes reporting on death

The family of one-director’s star Liam Payne (1993-2024), who died in October, accuses the media of having done “indescribable, permanent damage” by reporting on his death. In a statement published on Sunday morning, the persistent “attention and speculation” in the press had worsened her suffering and especially that of Payne’s young son Bear (7).

The family “always wished to be able to mourn in peace” and also ask that they give them the room and the time for it. It was “a time of enormous grief and great pain” for everyone who knew the singer.

It also says: “We understand that the investigation into Liam’s death was absolutely necessary and the family recognizes the work of the Argentine authorities. However, the family accepts the decision of the Court of Appeal to drop all charges.”

Payne died in October 2024 after a fall from a hotel balcony in the Argentine capital Buenos Aires at the age of 31. Afterwards, a friend of the singer and two hotel employees were investigated, who are said to have taken drugs on the evening of his death. The indictment against the friend was dropped in February.

On Saturday evening, the British music industry Liam Payne paid tribute with an emotional statement at the Brit Awards. Comedian Jack Whitehall (36), who was well friends with the singer, honored Payne as “not only a gifted musician, but also an incredibly gracious soul who touched the life of everyone with whom he came into contact”. Meanwhile, a moving assembly of O-tones, portraits and appearances of the singer was shown on the screens, with the one-direction song “Little Things”.

Payne’s family has joined this “celebration of his life”, the statement says: “Forever, we will remember the joy that his music has brought in. Liam, you will be loved and missed this way.”