Tributes have been pouring in after the death of One Direction star Liam Payne.
The 31-year-old singer died outside a hotel in Argentina’s capital, after falling from the third floor, police said.
He rose to fame after appearing on X Factor in 2010, where the world-famous boy band was formed.
TV presenter Dermot O’Leary, who presented the show at the time, called it “the worst news”.
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Alongside a photo of O’Leary and Payne standing on stage together, he wrote on Instagram: “The worst news. I remember him as a 14 year old turning up to audition on The X Factor, and blowing us away singing Sinatra. He just loved to sing.
“He was always a joy, had time for everyone, polite, grateful, and was always humble.”
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Singer Charlie Puth, who collaborated with Payne on the track Bedroom Floor, posted on Instagram: “I am in shock right now.
“Liam was always so kind to me. He was one of the first major artists I got to work with. I cannot believe he is gone.”
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Jack Johnson, one half of American rap duo Jack & Jack, called out social media users for their treatment of the former One Direction star.
“If this Liam Payne news is true that s**t is honestly so gut-wrenching… was such a nice guy the few times me and G ran into him, f*** the Internet for being so ruthless over the past few months,” he wrote on X.
Latest updates: Former One Direction star found dead at hotel
Anne Twist, the mother of former bandmate Harry Styles, posted a broken heart emoji on Instagram with the caption: “Just a boy…” while socialite Paris Hilton called the singer’s death “so upsetting” in a post on X.
“Sending love and condolences to his family and loved ones,” she wrote.
“RIP my friend.”
Former X Factor contestant Rylan said Payne’s death was “so tragic”, while X Factor singing duo Jedward sent their love to his six-year-old son.
“Sending strength to Cheryl and his son Bear, and all the One Direction family,” they wrote on X.
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A statement on MTV’s official social media accounts said: “We’re deeply saddened to learn of Liam Payne’s tragic passing today. During this difficult time, our hearts remain with his family, loved ones, and fans.”
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DJ and music producer Zedd called the news of Liam Payne’s death “absolutely heartbreaking”.
