Overview
- Tomlinson’s remarks, published in The Independent and widely picked up this week, single out Logan Paul as he criticizes influencer-led “new media” for poor ethical standards.
- He says Payne’s Impaulsive appearance was “hard” to watch, as the late singer appeared to be drinking and made divisive claims about his One Direction bandmates.
- Payne later apologized for the podcast, called it a mistake, and said he spent 100 days in rehab while reflecting on his comments.
- Tomlinson affirms Payne’s central role in One Direction, agreeing it was a leadership position assigned to him during the band’s rise.
- He notes Payne had pushed for a One Direction reunion but says the singer’s October 2024 death — with alcohol and other substances found in toxicology reports — has put those plans on hold.