Overview

• On September 19, Cassidy reshared AI-generated images of herself with Payne to Instagram Stories, thanked the creator, and wrote that AI is “a blessing and a curse.”
• The images were made by a fan and align with a wider social trend of AI tools reimagining hugs and moments with loved ones or public figures, according to coverage.
• Cassidy has been publicly documenting her grief, posting a memory-box video this week and marking Payne’s August 29 birthday by baking a cake and sharing tributes.
• Payne, 31, died on October 16, 2024 after a fall from a Buenos Aires hotel balcony; officials cited polytrauma as the cause of death, with toxicology noting alcohol and cocaine.
• Argentine prosecutors have charged five people, including hotel staff and a friend, over alleged manslaughter and drug supply, and the UK inquest remains adjourned to a November 6 pre‑inquest review.