Key Takeaways:
- Simon Cowell has publicly responded to claims that he is partially responsible for the tragic death of former One Direction star Liam Payne.
- The music mogul stated it’s impossible to be held responsible for someone’s life a decade after signing them to a record deal.
- Accusations suggested Cowell put too much pressure on the members of One Direction and failed to provide them with adequate support during their rise to fame.
- Liam Payne passed away in October 2024 at the age of 31.
Music executive Simon Cowell is addressing the painful accusations from some who hold him responsible for the death of his former protégé, Liam Payne. In a recent interview, Cowell confronted claims that the immense pressure placed on One Direction and a lack of support contributed to Payne’s struggles.
Cowell Rejects Responsibility
Speaking on the Rolling Stone Music Now podcast, Cowell was direct in his response to the allegations. “I don’t read any of this stuff because if I did, you would just torture yourself,” he explained. “The idea that you are essentially responsible for somebody’s life, 10 years after you’ve signed someone? You can’t do that.”
Cowell, who created the TV show The X Factor where One Direction was formed in 2010, signed the group to his Syco Records label, launching them into global stardom.
A Final Heart-to-Heart
The TV personality revealed that the news of Payne’s death “really hit me.” He recalled his last conversation with the singer, which took place about a year before his passing. During their talk, Cowell said he encouraged Payne to look beyond his career.
“I remember saying, ‘Music is not everything. Don’t let it run your life anymore. Find something else that you are passionate about,’” Cowell shared. He admitted to grappling with the what-ifs following the tragedy, adding, “You ask yourself that question: ‘Could I have done anything more? What would’ve happened to Liam if he hadn’t been in the band?’”
Remembering Liam Payne
Cowell also mentioned a recent conversation with Payne’s parents, who he said told him their son had been “so proud of what he had achieved.”
Reflecting on his last meeting with the star, Cowell expressed his regret. “I wish I could turn back the clock, of course. When I spoke to him that day, I felt really good about him,” he said. “I thought, ‘Wow, you seem in a really good place.’”
Liam Payne died at 31 after a fall from a hotel balcony in Buenos Aires, Argentina, in October 2024, leaving behind a legacy that deeply touched fans across the globe.