Niall Horan has spoken publicly about the grief he continues to feel following the death of his former One Direction bandmate Liam Payne, saying the emotion comes with both sadness and fond memories. In a new interview with The Times U.K., Horan recalled seeing Payne in Argentina just weeks before Payne’s death in October 2024, saying he is grateful their last memory together was a happy one. He said the loss still feels unreal and described their friendship as an enduring bond that remained strong even when they had not seen each other for a while.
Horan said he remains in contact with Payne’s family, noting that their families have stayed connected because they shared much of the same journey. He reflected on Payne’s death by describing how memories of their time together now bring both pain and laughter, especially when he remembers hotel stories, travel moments, and time spent in Australia. He also said the pair especially enjoyed being in Australia because they could go to the beach, adding a lighthearted memory about Payne’s surfing and his own limited swimming ability.
The singer said the experience is shared not only by the former bandmates but also by One Direction fans, who he said have also felt a sense of loss. Horan is preparing to release a tribute to Payne on his upcoming album, Dinner Party, with a song titled “End of an Era.” The inclusion of the track reflects the deep personal impact Payne’s death has had on him and the enduring connection between the members of the former group.
Payne died at age 31 in Buenos Aires, Argentina, after falling from a hotel balcony. Horan also addressed ongoing questions about a possible One Direction reunion, saying nothing is certain but acknowledging that interest in the band remains strong. He said the other members are doing well in their solo careers, but the possibility of reuniting continues to draw attention from fans.
