In an emotional new interview, former One Direction band member Niall Horan talked about the loss of Liam Payne. He further reflected on the grief that he still feels months after the death of his former bandmate. In a new interview with The Times U.K., Horan recalled their last time together in Argentina shortly before Payne’s death, and said that memory has been especially close and dear to him.

“I’m glad of that, it means my last memory of him was happy,” Horan said. “It still feels surreal. When I think of Liam’s passing, there is sadness, but it also makes me laugh and smirk because of the memories we had. We always had good fun,” he continued. 

Horan and Payne's friendship was more than just music. They stayed close during their One Direction years and even after that. They toured together, traveled the world, and became famous at a young age, forging a bond that lasted their entire lives, until the former's untimely death 2 years ago.

For context, Liam Payne died in Buenos Aires, Argentina, in October 2024 at the age of 31. The former One Direction star was in the city when he allegedly fell from a hotel balcony. His death made headlines around the world and was a massive loss to the music industry. 

Even after 1D came to an end, Horan and Payne’s friendship remained years after the band dissolved.

Niall Horan and Liam Payne’s friendship remained one of the lasting bonds to come out of One Direction

The untimely death of Liam Payne, who passed away in October 2024, shocked the music world. It also brought a heartbreaking end to the life of one of pop music’s most recognizable voices. He was especially remembered for rocketing to fame with One Direction, and then building a solo career of his own.

Niall Horan and Payne’s bond goes way back to their teenage days in One Direction. As they pursued individual careers, they remained connected through global tours, chart-topping albums, and life after the band. Horan’s recent interview about seeing Payne in Argentina put the limelight on their long-running friendship. 

Horan has even recorded a tribute song to Payne on his upcoming album, 'Dinner Party,' called ‘End of an Era.’ By speaking candidly, he emphasized how Payne’s presence is still connected not just to loss, but to friendship. His words offered a deeply personal reminder of how grief can live alongside cherished memories, especially when tied to a bond that lasted through so many years. 

What did you think of Horan’s emotional reflection on Payne and the memories he shared about their friendship? Let us know in the comments. 

Written by

Bias Sinha

Edited by

Adiba Nizami