The members of 5 Seconds of Summer have expressed their heartbreak and devastation over the passing of the One Direction member, their former tour mate and friend.
- October 19, 2024
AceShowbiz - In a joint statement shared on their Instagram Stories, 5 Seconds of Summer members Michael Clifford, Luke Hemmings, Ashton Irwin and Calum Hood expressed their profound grief: "We are heartbroken and devastated by the loss of our friend Liam."
They recalled Payne's belief in them during the early days of their career, expressing gratitude for his support and kindness. "You truly believed in us, and for that we are forever grateful," they said. "We don't know if we thanked you enough."
The band also acknowledged Payne's bright spirit, stating: "There was such a bright light in you, we always saw that. We are so devastated that this world put that light out."
They concluded their message with a heartfelt sentiment: "We hope you'll always be singing up there. With all of our love, Calum, Ashton, Luke, and Michael."
The statement was accompanied by a photo of One Direction and 5 Seconds of Summer together backstage at a concert. The two bands first crossed paths when One Direction invited 5 Seconds of Summer to open for their "Take Me Home Tour" in 2013.
In the aftermath of Payne's tragic death on October 16 at the age of 31, the remaining members of One Direction also expressed their condolences. In a joint statement, they said they were "completely devastated" by the loss of their "brother."
Friends, family, and fellow musicians have shared their memories of Payne, including his ex-girlfriend Cheryl and his son Bear. Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding Payne's death, which occurred after he fell multiple stories from a hotel in Buenos Aires, Argentina.
