The former members of English boy band One Direction reacted publicly to the sudden death of their bandmate, Liam Payne, for the first time on Thursday, saying in a joint statement that they’re “completely devastated.”
"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 four musicians said in a statement posted to social media. "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."
The four former band members are Harry Styles, Niall Horan, Zayn Malik and Louis Tomlinson.
Payne died Wednesday at age 31 after falling from his hotel window in Argentina.
Tomlinson shared a more personal tribute on Instagram.
"I am beyond devastated to be writing this but yesterday I lost a brother," he wrote. "Liam was somebody I looked up to everyday, such a positive, funny, and kind soul. I first met Liam when he was 16 and I was 18, I was instantly amazed by his voice but more importantly as time went on I got a chance to see the kind brother I'd longed all my life for."
Tomlinson praised Payne's musical talents and his vital role in One Direction's success. He concluded his post with a heartfelt message to Payne's young son, Bear, promising to be there for him and share stories of his father's incredible life and career.
"I want you to know that if Bear ever needs me I will be the Uncle he needs in his life and tell him stories of how amazing his dad was. I wish I got chance to say goodbye and tell you one more time how much I loved you."
Zayn Malik also shared his own tribute to Payne on social media, calling him sensible, headstrong, opinionated and musically "the most qualified in every sense."
"I lost a brother when you left us and can't explain to you what I'd give to just give you a hug one last time and say goodbye to you properly and tell you that I loved and respected you dearly."