Overview

• Tomlinson said Niall Horan told him about Payne’s death while he was in his car in Los Angeles, a moment he shared on the Diary of a CEO podcast.
• The official report states Payne died on October 16, 2024 after a fall in Buenos Aires, with multiple traumatic injuries and toxicology showing alcohol, cocaine and a prescribed antidepressant.
• Reflecting on their friendship, Tomlinson said he felt his best efforts were not enough and that Payne faced struggles deeper than he could help with.
• He described Zayn Malik’s 2015 departure as devastating and a breach of trust, adding he learned of the decision at the same time as the rest of the band.
• Asked about a One Direction return, Tomlinson said “never say never,” yet suggested moving forward would feel unfair without Payne, who had been the most eager to reunite.