Simon Cowell Says 'I Feel Empty' After Liam Payne's Death: 'Every Tear I Have Shed Is a Memory of You'

Mar. 15, 2025

Liam Payne and Simon Cowell pictured in 2017.Photo:David M. Benett/Dave Benett/Getty

David M. Benett/Dave Benett/Getty

Simon Cowellis paying tribute toLiam Payneafter theOne Directionsinger’sdeath at age 31.

Payne waspronounced deadafter falling multiple stories at the CasaSur Palermo Hotel in Buenos Aires, Argentina on Wednesday, Oct. 16, Policía Federal Argentina confirmed to PEOPLE.

Astributes continue to pour inaround the world, One Direction’s co-creator Cowell, 65 — who helped launch the band’s career onThe X FactorU.K. back in 2010 —shared a statement to Instagramon Oct. 18.

Simon Cowell in August 2021; Liam Payne in January 2023.Kevin Winter/Getty; Jeff Spicer/Getty

Kevin Winter/Getty; Jeff Spicer/Getty

“You never really know how you feel about someone until a moment like this happens,” he wrote. “Liam, I am devastated. Heartbroken. And 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.”

“This is so difficult to put into words right now,” added Cowell. “I went outside today, and I thought about so many times we had together. I wanted to let you know what I would always say to the thousands of people who would always ask me. What is Liam like?”

He explained, “And I would tell them you were kind, funny, sweet, thoughtful, talented, humble, focused. And how much you loved music. And how much love you genuinely had for the fans.”

Cowell recalled working with Payne onThe X Factor.“I had to tell you when you were 14 that this wasn’t your time. And we both made a promise that we would meet again. A lot of people would have given up. You didn’t,” he said. “You came back and within months the whole world knew Liam. And you never forgot the fans. I watched you spending so much time with people who had wanted to meet you. You really cared.”

The Syco Records founder then spoke about spending time with the “Strip That Down” musician last year — “Not for a meeting. Just to sit and talk,” he explained.

“And we reminisced about all of the fun times we had together. And how proud you were to be a Dad. After you left, I was reminded that you were still the sweet, kind boy I had met all of those years ago. I have met your son, Bear. He has your smile and that twinkle in his eye that you have,” said Cowell. “And he will be so proud of everything you have achieved. And how you achieved it.”

To conclude the note, the formerAmerican Idoljudge spoke about One Direction. “I always thought of the 5 of you in the band as brothers. And regarding their messages today I believe you were,” wrote Cowell. “And now Liam, I can see the effect you had on so many people. Because you left too soon.”

“Rest in peace my friend,” he said. “And I am sending my love, thoughts and prayers to your family.”

Simon Cowell pictured with One Direction in England in December 2010.Tony Woolliscroft/Getty

Tony Woolliscroft/Getty

Cowell andX Factorguest judge,Nicole Scherzinger, played a major role in forming One Direction after Payne,Harry Styles,Zayn Malik,Niall HoranandLouis Tomlinsonall auditioned for the show separately.

Despite coming third, they went on to become one of the biggest pop groups in the world. AfterThe X Factor, Cowell ended up signing the band to his former record label, Syco Music.

Simon Cowell pictured with One Direction in 2013.Dave M. Benett/WireImage

Dave M. Benett/WireImage

“Due to the tragic passing of Liam Payne,BGThas decided to postpone today’s auditions in Blackpool,” Applause Store, who offer free audience tickets to the event, said in anInstagram Storiespost.

“We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause,” the message added.

Simon Cowell pictured with One Direction in 2013.Jeff Kravitz/FilmMagic

Jeff Kravitz/FilmMagic

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Cowell was among multipleX Factorstars paying tribute to Payne following his death.

Host Dermot O’Leary posted a black and white photo from their time on the showon Instagram, alongside the caption: “The worst news. I remember him as a 14 year old turning up to audition onThe X Factor, and blowing us away singing Sinatra. He just loved to sing.”

source: people.com