Former One Direction singer Liam Payne has tragically passed away at the age of 31 after falling from a third-floor balcony at a hotel in Buenos Aires. Argentine police confirmed the death on Wednesday, stating they were called to the hotel in the Palermo neighbourhood, where they found Payne’s body in the hotel’s interior patio. The British singer, who had been staying at the hotel during a visit to Argentina, reportedly fell while under the influence of drugs and alcohol.
Hotel staff had called the police earlier in the day, reporting an “aggressive” guest who was destroying his room and appeared to be intoxicated. According to audio from the Buenos Aires security ministry, a hotel worker expressed concern for the guest’s safety due to the room’s balcony. Despite efforts from emergency responders, Payne was pronounced dead at the scene.
Payne, who shot to global fame as a member of the boy band One Direction, was remembered fondly by friends and fans. American singer Charlie Puth expressed his grief on Instagram, stating, “Liam was always so kind to me… I cannot believe he is gone.” Music platforms like MTV and Spotify, along with the BRIT Awards, also shared their condolences on social media, mourning the loss of the talented musician.
The singer, who leaves behind a son, Bear, born in 2017 with British TV personality Cheryl, had openly discussed his struggles with mental health in recent years. Payne had spoken about his battle with fame and his efforts to overcome alcohol dependency. In a video released last year, he thanked fans for their continued support and spoke about his hopes for the future, including new music and reconnecting with loved ones.
Fans gathered outside the hotel in Buenos Aires to pay their respects, with many seen hugging and crying as night fell over the city. Some fans applauded as Payne’s body was taken to the morgue, expressing their deep sadness at the loss of the beloved artist. A 25-year-old fan, Yamila Zacarias, shared how much the band meant to her growing up, adding, “This was the only time I could applaud him.”
Another fan, Violeta Antier, had rushed to the scene after hearing the news from her sister. She recalled seeing Payne just two weeks ago at a concert for Niall Horan, another member of One Direction, in Buenos Aires. “He was there, I saw him… He was ok,” she said, struggling to comprehend the sudden loss.
Liam Payne had been in Buenos Aires to attend Horan’s concert, part of the Argentine leg of a Latin American tour. The two former bandmates were seen posting videos together and with fans, showcasing their enduring friendship. Payne’s presence at the concert just weeks before his death made the news all the more shocking to his devoted fan base.
One Direction, which disbanded in 2016, remains one of the most successful boy bands in history, selling over 70 million records worldwide. Payne co-wrote several of the group’s hit songs, including “Night Changes” and “Story of My Life.” His talent as both a performer and songwriter earned him global recognition, and he leaves behind a lasting legacy in the music industry.
As tributes continue to pour in from around the world, Payne’s fans and loved ones are grappling with the sudden loss. His openness about his personal struggles and his impact on millions through music have left a deep void. The British singer’s passing marks a tragic end to the life of an artist who brought joy to so many, yet battled his own demons behind the scenes.
