What was Simon Cowell's first thought after Liam Payne died? Music executive details heart-wrenching phone calls

Simon Cowell recently discussed the moment he heard of Liam Payne’s death. Liam Payne, a former member of One Direction, died on October 16, 2024, after falling off a hotel balcony in Argentina. Simon, alongside fellow judge Nicole Scherzinger, created One Direction after 16-year-old Liam Payne came to re-audition for the X Factor alongside Harry Styles, Niall Horan, Louis Tomlinson, and Zayn Malik.

Simon Cowell revealed how he felt receiving the news of Liam’s passing.

“Somebody who works with me very closely came into my room,” he began.

“I was up in the north of England, and I could tell by the look of her face that she was upset. She said, ‘Sit down,’ and she told me,” he said during the November 29 episode of The New York Times podcast, The Interview.

He continued:

“It was like — wow. It was a bit like I felt when I heard the news when my dad passed away. It’s very difficult to put into words how you feel. It’s just shock. At that point, you’re not really thinking clearly. I just remember saying: ‘I really need to speak to his mum and dad. Can you get them on the phone as soon as possible please?’”

Simon Cowell was in shock after hearing of Liam Payne’s death

Simon Cowell met Liam when the latter was just fourteen years old. After hearing about the death of 31-year-old Payne, Cowell revealed that he was in shock. He also shared his understanding of how difficult it was for his family and friends to cope.

The record executive revealed that he had met Payne before his death and had spoken about several topics, including fatherhood. He shared that Liam was proud to be a father.

“I was talking to him about there’s more to life than just music; you’ve got to a point in your life where you’ve got a choice now. We just hung out as friends. That’s why I was so shocked and surprised when I heard the news.”

Simon Cowell spoke about the difficulties that come with fame, especially when you become famous at a young age. He added that there was some advice he couldn't give the late singer that he wished he had.

“It’s very difficult, because I honestly don’t know what is harder: trying to be famous or managing your fame. There was stuff I never would have spoken about then, private conversations and advice I tried to give him, which is what comes with fame, etc.”

Liam Payne is survived by his 8 year old son.

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