Louis Tomlinson's beautiful gesture to Liam Payne as he stands up for him one last time

Former star Louis Tomlinson issued a defiant statement about bandmate Liam Payne

The singer died yesterday aged 31 after falling from the third floor of a hotel in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Following the shock news, Liam's former bandmates have been paying tribute. to fans as well as a message directly to Liam.

He said he was "beyond devastated" to be writing the statement about his "brother". In the devastating post, Louis stood up for Liam one last time. The singer wrote: "And for the record, Liam was in my opinion the most vital part of One Direction. His experience from a young age, his perfect pitch, his stage presence, his gift for writing. The list goes on. Thank you for shaping us Liam."

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Liam was put together with , Niall Horan, Zayn Malik and Louis Tomlinson as they formed One Direction on the X Factor. The singer was met by criticsm from some fans after saying One Direction was formed around him in a 2022 interview that he later apologised for.

Louis' tribute added: "A message to you Liam if you’re listening, I feel beyond lucky to have had you in my life but I’m really struggling with the idea of saying goodbye. I’m so grateful that we got even closer since the band, speaking on the phone for hours , reminiscing about all the thousands of amazing memories we had together is a luxury I thought I’d have with you for life. I would have loved to share the stage with you again but it wasn’t to be.

"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. Payno, my boy, one of my best friends, my brother, I love you mate. Sleep well X"

where he also echoed Louis' sentiments. He wrote: "When it came to the music Liam, you were the most qualified in every sense. I knew nothing in comparison, l was a novice child with no experience and you were already a professional.

"I was always happy to know, no matter what happened on stage we could always rely on you to know which way to steer the ship next." also released a heartbreaking statement of Liam. His bandmates have said they are "completely devastated" by the news of his death, adding: "The memories we shared with him will be treasured forever."

In a statement signed "Louis, Zayn, Niall and Harry", Liam Payne's One Direction bandmates said: "We're completely devastated by the news of Liam's passing. 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 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."

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