Very quickly, the news went around the world, and many fans expressed their sadness on social networks. Very popular in the 2010s, One Direction had built up a powerful fanbase, the Directioners, mainly made up of teenage girls at the time. Now adults, fans were devastated when they learned of the death of one of the group’s members. Messages quickly flooded into the networks, coming from all over the world. “I am shocked, devastated and speechless”we can read on X. “You will always be a part of my life”writes a fan in reference to a song by the boy band. “He was part of my childhood”, “I can’t believe it”, “my heart is breaking”, are all messages that are repeated and flood the platforms.
Fans also gathered near the hotel in Buenos Aires to pay tribute to the singer. They lit candles there and the sadness on their faces was clearly visible.
Many fans were looking forward to the group’s reunion. Some of them sadly noted that it would probably take place during Liam Payne’s funeral. At this time, no other One Direction has reacted to the announcement. The only celebrity to have paid tribute to him is the singer Charlie Puth. After posting a photo with his friend on Instagram, he wrote in his story: “I’m shocked. Liam was always so kind to me. He was one of the greatest artists I’ve ever worked with. I can’t believe he’s gone.”
