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Updated May 31, 2026 · 15:45
World News Updated May 31, 2026

Niall Horan Remembers Liam Payne: "My Last Memory of Him Was Happy"

Niall Horan has shared his emotional response to the death of his One Direction bandmate Liam Payne, revealing he was in denial at first. He recalled being with Payne a few weeks prior and cherishing a happy last memory. Horan also reflected on their shared fun times, including trips to Australia where Payne tried surfing. His upcoming solo album features a tribute track titled 'End of an Era' dedicated to Payne.

"My last memory of him was happy": Niall Horan remembers his One Direction bandmate Liam Payne

Los Angeles, May 31

Singer Niall Horan has opened up about the death of his former One Direction bandmate Liam Payne, revealing that he was in immediate denial after hearing the news, reported Variety.

Horan shared that he was with Payne a few weeks before his death.

"I'm glad of that, it means my last memory of him was happy. It still feels surreal. On day one, I was, like, 'Nah, it didn't happen.' Our friendship was a bond that was there forever, even if we hadn't seen each other for a while, and it's wild that one day, like the flick of a switch, he's gone," he said, as quoted by Variety.

Horan also spoke about how "all our families" have remained in touch to work through the loss.

"When I think of Liam's passing, there is sadness, but it also makes me laugh and smirk because of the memories we had. I'll go to places and think of something stupid in a hotel or something random that makes me laugh. We always had good fun in Australia because we were able to get out and go to the beach. Liam wasn't too bad at surfing. I can barely swim," he added.

On the work front, Niall Horan's upcoming solo album 'Dinner Party' is set to debut on June 2.

A tribute track to Liam Payne, it is titled 'End of an Era'.

Payne passed away in October 2024 after falling from a hotel balcony in Argentina.

— ANI

Reader Comments

Rajesh Kumar

Too many young celebrities dying so tragically nowadays. It's not just about music, it's about mental health and the pressures of fame. I hope his family finds strength in these memories. Niall's words are truly touching.

Priya Singh

"End of an Era" - what a beautiful tribute title. Niall's way of remembering Liam through laughter and happy memories is such a positive approach. We all need to remember the good times, not just the tragedy. Sending love from India 🇮🇳

Arvind Patel

It's sad how the media often focuses on the dark side of these stories, but Niall's perspective is refreshing. His last memory being happy is something Liam would have wanted. The real loss here is for his family and close ones.

Shreya Joshi

As a 1D fan from the early days, this feels personal. Liam was such a big part of our teenage years. Niall's words show how close they really were, even if we didn't see it. The whole band community is still in shock. We'll never forget you, Liam! 😢

David Johnson

I'm not even a huge 1D fan, but this story got to me. The way Niall talks about their bond - "a bond that was there forever" - that's real friendship. So many people don't get that. Respect to Niall for handling this with such grace.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

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