Niall Horan has been left "absolutely devastated" following the death of Liam Payne.
The 31-year-old pop star shot to fame alongside Liam - who died on Wednesday (16.10.24) at the age of 31 after falling from the balcony of his hotel room in Buenos Aires - as part of One Direction in 2010 and took to social media to remember his former bandmate.
On Friday (18.10.24) morning, he wrote on Instagram: "I'm absolutely devastated about the passing of my amazing friend, Liam. It just doesn't feel real.
Liam had an energy for life and a passion for work that was infectious. He was the brightest in every room and always made everyone feel happy and secure.
All the laughs we had over the years, sometimes about the simplest of things, keep coming to mind through the sadness. We got to live out our wildest dreams together and I will cherish every moment we had forever. The bond and friendship we had doesn't happen often in a lifetime."
The 'Heaven' hitmaker had been performing in the Argentinian city earlier this month, and Liam had gone to see him but decided to stay in the country for a couple of weeks.
Niall noted how "heartbreaking" it was to realise that was the last time he would ever see him and sent his love to Liam's family and son Bear, seven, who he has with his former partner Cheryl.
He said: "I feel so fortunate that I got to see him recently. I sadly didn't know that after saying goodbye and hugging him that evening, I would be saying goodbye forever. It's heartbreaking.
He added: "My love and condolences go out to Geoff, Karen, Ruth, Nicola and of course his son Bear.
Thank you for everything, Payno.
Love you brother.
Nialler"
Niall is the final member of the 'Night Changes' group to release a tribute to their former bandmate, with Louis, 32, noting how Liam had become the "brother he had always longed for", whilst Zayn, 31, said there were "no words" to describe how he was feeling at the loss.
Harry stated that he will always miss his "lovely friend", before the band released a joint statement to remember their co-star.
They said: "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. - Louis, Zayn, Niall and Harry. (sic)"
