Liam Payne’s Funeral: Simon Cowell Breaks Down, Hugs Late Singer’s Parents – News18

Last Updated:November 21, 2024, 11:38 IST

Simon Cowell, who played a pivotal role in forming One Direction, was present to pay his respects.

Former One Direction member Liam Payne‘s tragic passing has left fans, friends and family devastated. The 31-year-old singer reportedly passed away after falling from the third floor of a hotel in Buenos Aires, Argentina. His funeral was held on November 20 at St. Mary’s Church in Amersham, England.

Simon Cowell, who played a pivotal role in forming One Direction, was present to pay his respects. Cowell broke down in tears as he shared an emotional hug with Payne’s parents, Geoff and Karen, outside the church. His fiancee, Lauren Silverman, stood by his side and joined in the family’s grief during this difficult time. When the news of Liam Payne’s death spread, Simon Cowell took to social media and wrote, “I feel empty. And I want you to know how much love and respect I have for you. Every tear I have shed is a memory of you.”

Although the ceremony was private and the family specifically asked for privacy, several of Liam Payne’s close industry friends attended to offer their condolences. One Direction members Harry Styles, Zayn Malik, Niall Horan and Louis Tomlinson were also present. Kate Cassidy, Payne’s girlfriend who was with him in Buenos Aires, was reportedly among the first to arrive. Liam’s ex-girlfriend and the mother of his seven-year-old son Bear, Cheryl Cole, also attended the service.

Liam Payne was laid to rest nearly a month after his tragic death at the age of 31. The investigation into his passing is still ongoing, but officials revealed that multiple drugs, including crack cocaine and methamphetamine, were found in his system. The prosecutor’s office confirmed that the cause of death was “multiple trauma” and “internal and external hemorrhage” caused by the fall from the hotel’s third-floor balcony.

Liam Payne won the hearts of fans and gained worldwide recognition as a member of One Direction. The boyband formed during the 2010 season of The X Factor. However, it went on an indefinite hiatus in 2015. Later, Liam Payne embarked on a successful solo career.