Sharon Osbourne is the latest star to pay an emotional tribute to fellow entertainer Liam Payne.
The former X Factor judge took to Instagram to reflect on his life while sharing her regrets. She stated, “Liam, my heart aches. We all let you down. Where was this industry when you needed them? You were just a kid when you entered one of the toughest industries in the world. Who was in your corner? Rest in peace my friend.”
Osbourne served as a judge on the first three series of the show from 2004 to 2007 but was no longer part of X Factor when Payne appeared in the competition. Meanwhile, British show producer Simon Cowell, who also served as a judge and put together One Direction in 2010, canceled a recent taping of “Britain’s Got Talent” on Thursday following the devastating news of Liam Payne’s death at age 31.
More on What Happened:
As we previously reported, the entertainer fell from the third floor of the CasaSur Palermo Hotel in Buenos Aires, Argentina, according to police reports. Hotel staff alerted authorities and requested urgent assistance shortly before Payne fell, as indicated by an emergency call obtained by TMZ.
“We have a guest who is overwhelmed with drugs and alcohol,” the front desk manager is heard saying on the call. “He breaks things up. He is tearing the whole room apart.” The manager emphasized the need for “someone to be sent to us urgently,” as staff were concerned they didn’t know “if the guest’s life is at risk.” Tragically, help did not arrive in time. Payne fell and suffered fatal injuries. The exact circumstances surrounding his death are still under investigation.
His family has since released a statement regarding his passing. “Liam will forever live in our hearts and we’ll remember him for his kind, funny and brave soul.” They further expressed, “We are supporting each other the best we can as a family and ask for privacy and space at this awful time,” as quoted by the BBC.
The singer is survived by his 7-year-old son Bear, whom he shares with ex-partner Cheryl.
