In heartbreaking news, Simon Cowell took to social media to share a moving tribute following the sudden passing of Liam Payne, former One Direction star, at the age of 31 on October 16th.
Cowell, the music mogul who practically assembled One Direction like a boy-band version of the Avengers on The X Factor in 2010, reflected on their journey together. And yes, if you imagined Simon delivering this tribute with a single raised eyebrow and a slight British sigh, you’re not wrong.
“You never really know how you feel about someone until a moment like this,” Simon began, likely typing from the comfort of his personal yacht, clutching a cappuccino. “Liam, I am devastated. Heartbroken. Empty. Like that feeling when the Wi-Fi cuts out mid-Zoom call. Every tear I shed is a memory of you.”
Simon then took a moment to confirm that, yes, he is in fact capable of feeling emotions deeper than “mild annoyance at mediocre auditions.” He recalled their memories: “I went outside today—rare for me, to be honest—and thought about all the times we had together.” Translation: Cowell, the king of snark, spent the afternoon reminiscing about this sweet cinnamon roll of a pop star, probably while dodging the paparazzi and reapplying his trademark tan.
In a surprising burst of unfiltered affection, Simon continued: “Whenever people asked me what Liam was like, I always told them: kind, funny, sweet, talented, and so humble it’s almost suspicious. He loved music and the fans—like, actually loved them, which is rare in this industry. Most people fake it better than autotune.”
Simon dropped a nugget of boy-band history too: “When Liam was just 14, I had to tell him it wasn’t his time yet. Did he give up? Nope. He came back stronger, like a superhero with great hair. And soon, everyone on Earth knew the name ‘Liam Payne.’ And what’s more impressive? The man never forgot his fans. I mean, the guy spent more time meeting fans than I spend perfecting my V-neck collection—and that’s saying something.”
Cowell fondly recalled one of their recent catch-ups: “He came to see me last year—not for a meeting, but just to hang out and chat. We laughed, we reminisced, and he told me how proud he was to be a dad. I was reminded, once again, that he was still the same sweet boy I met years ago, just with better cheekbones.”
He added a touching note about Liam’s son, Bear. “I met Bear too—adorable kid. He’s got Liam’s smile and that same mischievous twinkle. Honestly, I’m waiting for Bear to form a band by the age of 6.”
In classic Simon Cowell style, he wrapped things up with a sentimental yet stoically British closing: “The five of you—Liam, Harry, Niall, Louis, and Zayn—were always like brothers. And seeing everyone’s messages today proves just how much of an impact you had, Liam. You left us too soon, my friend. Rest in peace. I’m sending love to your family, along with every ounce of emotional vulnerability I can muster.”
The man who gave the world some of the harshest critiques also has a soft spot—and it seems Liam Payne knew exactly how to reach it.
Rest easy, Liam. Even Simon’s heart grew three sizes today.