MANILA, Philippines — Former One Direction members poured their hearts out as they grieved the loss of their beloved “brother” and fellow bandmate Liam Payne.
Yesterday, One Direction’s Instagram page was reactivated with a heartfelt joint statement signed by Louis Tomlinson, Zayn Malik, Niall Hiran and Harry Styles, addressing the sudden passing of Liam.
“We’re completely devastated by the news of Liam’s passing. In time, and when everyone is able to, there will be more to say. But for now, we will take some time to grieve and process the loss of our brother, who we loved dearly.
“The memories we shared with him will be treasured forever. For now, our thoughts are with his family, his friends, and the fans who loved him alongside us. We will miss him terribly. We love you Liam,” read the group’s statement.
On his personal Instagram page, Louis reminisced his memories with Liam whom he called the “most vital part of One Direction.”
“I feel beyond lucky to have had you in my life but I’m really struggling with the idea of saying goodbye,” Louis wrote in his lengthy tribute.
Louis also vowed to be an uncle to Liam’s seven-year-old son, Bear, with singer Cheryl Cole, saying: “If (he) ever needs in his life and tell him stories of how amazing his dad was.”
Zayn, meanwhile, posted a throwback photo of him and Liam, expressing regret over not being able to thank him “for supporting me through some difficult times of my life.”
“I lost a brother when you left us and can’t explain to you what I’d give to just give you a hug one last time and say goodbye to you properly and tell you that I loved and respected you dearly,” Zayn wrote in his emotional tribute to Liam.
For his part, Harry shared a photo of Liam performing in front of the crowd, saying he’s honored to have done with the late singer his “greatest joy” — making other people happy.
The singer added that the moments he shared with Liam “will forever remain among the most cherished years of my life.”
Niall, meanwhile, has yet to release a personal tribute for his bandmate but he was reportedly the last One Direction member who saw Liam before his passing. Two weeks ago, they reunited during Niall’s concert in Argentina.
One Direction, formed through the reality competition “The X Factor UK” in 2010, is widely known for their hits such as What Makes You Beautiful, Steal My Girl, and Night Changes.
The members embarked on solo careers after Zayn’s exit and hiatus in 2015.
Liam passed away on Oct. 16 after falling from the third floor of a hotel balcony in Buenos Aires.