‘We all let you down’: Sharon Osbourne claims music industry failed to support Liam Payne after his former X Factor mentor Simon Cowell found himself in firing line for ‘exploiting young stars’

'We all let you down': Sharon Osbourne claims music industry failed to support Liam Payne after his former X Factor mentor Simon Cowell found himself in firing line for 'exploiting young stars'

As I reflect on the life of Liam Payne, it’s hard not to be moved by his journey from One Direction to solo stardom and beyond. His meteoric rise, fueled by his infectious charm and undeniable talent, was a testament to his resilience and determination. The way he effortlessly transitioned from the boy band scene to forging a successful solo career is truly inspiring.


Sharon Osbourne expressed regret, saying “We all fell short” as she stated that the industry did not adequately support Liam Payne following his tragic fall from a hotel balcony in Argentina on Wednesday at age 31.

Following criticism from past X Factor contestants Katie Waissel and Rebecca Ferguson regarding alleged exploitation and profit-making of young talents on the show, Sharon’s tribute was given in response.

As a devoted admirer, I myself echoed Sharon’s earlier sentiment that the X Factor resembles the Wild West. Moreover, I articulated my personal sentiments regarding the deficiency of support within our industry, expressing my respect for the singer by offering a heartfelt tribute to them.

Sharing a snap of Liam, she wrote: ‘Liam, my heart aches. We all let you down. Where was this industry when you needed them? 

‘Back then, you were still young when you stepped into one of the most challenging professions globally. Who stood by your side through it all? Farewell, my dear friend.’

'We all let you down': Sharon Osbourne claims music industry failed to support Liam Payne after his former X Factor mentor Simon Cowell found himself in firing line for 'exploiting young stars'

'We all let you down': Sharon Osbourne claims music industry failed to support Liam Payne after his former X Factor mentor Simon Cowell found himself in firing line for 'exploiting young stars'

Longtime pals Sharon and Louis Walsh have been outspoken about their critical opinions towards The X Factor, with Sharon likening it to the “Wild West” this year and stating that today’s world doesn’t offer room for such a program.

From 2004 to 2007, Ozzy Osbourne’s wife served as a judge on the talent show. She reappeared on the panel in 2013, 2016, and 2017, and also judged America’s Got Talent from 2007 to 2012.

Yet she confirmed she would never return to the show as due to the damage it can cause stars.  

In her interview on Greatest Hits Radio, she described the talent competition scene as being similar to the lawless frontier of the Wild West, indicating that it was chaotic and unregulated due to her absence from it for some time.

It seems you weren’t fully aware of its significance and how it impacts people’s lives. From my perspective, a complete overhaul is necessary for this matter.

Beyond opening doors for many individuals in terms of career advancement, it’s essential to note that such opportunities could potentially harm some people as well. Exercise extreme caution is advised.

‘You’re handling people’s lives, you’ve got their future in your hands and it’s not anything to laugh at.’

Following the announcement of Liam’s death on Wednesday, Simon encountered criticism from Katie Waissel, a contestant on the 2010 X Factor alongside Liam. In two statements, she implicated the music industry executive in allegations that prioritize ‘earnings over individuals’, suggesting a focus on profits rather than people.

Expressing her sorrow on Twitter, she penned down: ‘My heart is devastated beyond recognition, leaving me utterly speechless.’

If Simon Cowell were to make any comment about the deeply sorrowful and painful passing of my cherished friend Liam, he would indeed be acting rather unwise. Everyone is aware of the facts… rest assured, the whole story will eventually surface.

'We all let you down': Sharon Osbourne claims music industry failed to support Liam Payne after his former X Factor mentor Simon Cowell found himself in firing line for 'exploiting young stars'
'We all let you down': Sharon Osbourne claims music industry failed to support Liam Payne after his former X Factor mentor Simon Cowell found himself in firing line for 'exploiting young stars'
'We all let you down': Sharon Osbourne claims music industry failed to support Liam Payne after his former X Factor mentor Simon Cowell found himself in firing line for 'exploiting young stars'

Afterward, she issued a comprehensive statement, shifting her attention towards her perspectives on the current status of the music scene.

Writing that Liam’s death ‘serves as a painful reminder of the systemic neglect that persists in the industry’ she insisted: ‘the focus remained on profits rather than the people.’

She explained: ‘This industry has treated talent like commodities, and the negligence of duty of care has once again led to a heart-wrenching loss. We need only look at Simon Cowell’s recent interview with Steven Bartlett, where he admits his greatest regret was not owning the band’s name.’

It’s unfortunate when the focus isn’t placed on the well-being of the artists who entrust these institutions, be it for TV shows or music contracts. These agreements carry both a legal and ethical obligation to ensure their welfare, which should never be overlooked.

At the same time, Rebecca Ferguson – a contestant on X Factor in 2010 with Liam – has openly expressed criticisms about the music industry for covering up appalling human rights violations. She also asserted that she faced persistent sexism and bullying during her professional journey.

In her song, the singer-songwriter expressed that if Liam hadn’t boarded the train at Euston station and taken the same taxi to X Factor, she believes he would still be alive today.

I’ve been talking for a long time about the mistreatment and financial gain from up-and-coming celebrities, and the consequences – many of us continue to grapple with the fallout and the emotional trauma that can last, often manifesting as PTSD.

During their time on Celebrity Big Brother in March, Sharon and Louis Walsh didn’t hesitate to openly express their views about Simon.

'We all let you down': Sharon Osbourne claims music industry failed to support Liam Payne after his former X Factor mentor Simon Cowell found himself in firing line for 'exploiting young stars'
'We all let you down': Sharon Osbourne claims music industry failed to support Liam Payne after his former X Factor mentor Simon Cowell found himself in firing line for 'exploiting young stars'

Sharon communicated to her ex-X Factor co-worker: “Simon, he consistently ends conversations abruptly, again and again, and I believe he struggles with maintaining friendships.

In addition, Louis confessed that he has not interacted with Simon since their time on The X Factor, further stating, “We haven’t exchanged a word, absolutely nothing. Not even a hint.

Simon temporarily halted the auditions for Britain’s Got Talent following the sad news about Liam’s passing, and he is reported to be deeply shaken and heartbroken over this tragic event.

According to a recent report from The Mail, it was disclosed that Liam was let go by his music label, Universal Music, only a few days prior to his passing.

At the age of 22, Liam, who had originally signed with Sony as part of One Direction, started his solo career in July 2016 by signing a contract with Capitol Records, a label under Universal Music Group.

It is known that Liam appeared extremely happy when he agreed to join Capitol, as the contract was believed to be highly profitable for him.

The label is a subsidiary of Universal, but in the company’s recent reshuffle he came under the main label.

On Thursday, Universal Music Group shared a post on Instagram expressing their sorrow over the apparent passing of Liam Payne.

On a chilly Buenos Aires evening on Wednesday, Liam tragically fell from the third floor of a city hotel, and later that night, medical professionals sadly verified his passing.

The Universal Music Group tribute read: ‘We are devastated by the tragic passing of Liam Payne.

As a lifestyle connoisseur, I can affirm that the impact of Liam’s musical genius will continue to resonate for generations to come. The multitude of hearts he touched and inspired with his art will carry on his legacy. In this moment, our thoughts are with Liam’s family and loved ones, extending our heartfelt condolences during this difficult time.

Capitol Records reposted the statement as well.

Multiple sources have confirmed to TopMob that the singer was axed by the record label.

A source said: ‘Liam’s advance was massive and he didn’t recoup [it].

‘Out of all of the One Direction boys, Liam was on the wrong path musically.’

Prior to Universal Music dropping him, it was clear that the launch of his second album had been postponed.

Additionally, it’s worth mentioning that Liam’s public relations representative stepped down earlier this month, leaving him without any representation for publicity matters.

Liam resigned following Maya Henry, his former fiancée, initiating legal action against him due to allegations he persistently reached out to her.

It appears as though Liam’s entire musical career, which he has been cultivating since going solo eight years ago, is on the verge of collapse. There isn’t much left for him to work with anymore.

‘It must have absolutely devastated him.’

'We all let you down': Sharon Osbourne claims music industry failed to support Liam Payne after his former X Factor mentor Simon Cowell found himself in firing line for 'exploiting young stars'

The latest development comes as:

  • One Direction star returns to his hotel room before fall from balcony as staff told police he was ‘off his head on drugs’
  • Liam Payne’s family say they are ‘heartbroken’ and say he will ‘forever live in our hearts and we’ll remember him for his kind, funny and brave soul’ 
  • One Direction star ‘was acting erratically with police called to his hotel over drugs and alcohol claims shortly before he fell to his death’ – as his horrific injuries are revealed 
  • Liam Payne’s ex-fiancée Maya Henry claimed star ‘predicted he would die early’
  • Zayn Malik’s sister Waliyha admits she is ‘heartbroken’ and has ‘no words’ after Liam Payne’s death 
  • Heartbroken fans descended on the hotel to lay candles and flowers for Payne;
  • Payne shared a photo with his girlfriend on Snapchat minutes before his death;

Liam’s former bandmates from One Direction, who had been quiet up until then, shared a moving message following his sad passing on Thursday.

As I reflect on our journey together, I must confess that we are deeply shattered – heart and soul. The bond we’ve shared as brothers has been indelibly etched in the fabric of our lives, and to see it evolve is a bittersweet experience for us all. We remain hopeful for the future, but for now, we stand united in our sorrow.

‘In time, and when everyone is able to, there will be more to say,’ they said.

For the moment, I find myself engulfed in sorrow and the need to honor the memory of my cherished sibling. I’ll take this time to mourn and reflect on the profound love we shared.

Let me rephrase that for you: We’ll always cherish the moments we spent with him. At this moment, our hearts go out to his family, his close ones, and the fans who admired him alongside us.

‘We will miss him terribly. We love you Liam.’

Harry Styles, Louis Tomlinson, and Zayn Malik all later released separate tributes. 

Styles wrote on Instagram that he was ‘truly devastated’ and will ‘miss him always’.

One simple way to rephrase this sentence is: “His utmost pleasure lay in bringing happiness to others, and it was a privilege to share in his journey as he accomplished this.

‘Liam lived wide open, with his heart on his sleeve, he had an energy for life that was infectious.

1) He was affectionate, kind-hearted, and deeply caring. Our shared years hold a special place in my heart, ranking among the most precious memories of my life. I’ll carry the longing for him with me forever, my dear companion.

I’m deeply saddened by the loss of Karen, Geoff, Nicola, Ruth, and their beloved son Bear, along with everyone else worldwide who knew and cherished him, just as I did.

As a lifestyle advisor, I’d like to share a sentiment that resonates deeply within me: It’s been incredibly challenging for me to grapple with the thought of parting ways.

He posted a picture on his Instagram page of the two of them on stage with Payne lovingly putting his arm over Tomlinson’s shoulder. 

Tomlinson expressed that he would serve as an uncle to Bear, Payne’s son, should the need arise, and share tales with him about what a fantastic person his father was.

‘He expressed his heartfelt gratitude for growing even closer since our time in the band. Talking for hours on the phone, looking back on all the wonderful moments we shared seems like something I’ll always treasure with you.’

‘I would have loved to share the stage with you again but it wasn’t to be. 

‘I wish I got chance to say goodbye and tell you one more time how much I loved you.

‘Payno, my boy, one of my best friends, my brother, I love you mate. Sleep well X.’

Malik said he had been talking out loud to Payne ‘hoping you can hear me’. 

In his own heart wrenching tribute, he said he had ‘lost a brother when you left us’.

As a lifestyle expert, I’d put it this way: “I wish beyond words to embrace you one more time, bid you farewell with the utmost respect, and express my deep love for you. Alas, these are feelings I can barely find the right words to convey.

‘I will cherish all the memories I have with you in my heart forever. There is no words that justify or explain how I feel right now other than beyond devastated. I hope that wherevere you are right now you are good and are at peace and you know how loved you are. Love you bro.’  

Liam’s solo success was built upon his worldwide fame, which started from the ITV talent competition, The X Factor.

Back in 2008, I made my debut on that popular TV show, belting out Frank Sinatra’s “Fly Me to the Moon” at just fourteen. Remarkably, Simon Cowell, one of the judges, advised me to revisit the ITV talent show a couple of years down the line.

In the year 2010, Liam showcased his vocal skills by performing Michael Buble’s version of “Cry Me A River”. This captivating performance took place prior to him being assembled with four other solo contestants at the boot camp phase of the competition, a group that eventually formed One Direction.

2012 marked the year I was part of a boy band that clinched our initial Brit Award for the Best British Single, thanks to our debut track “What Makes You Beautiful.” A year afterward, we were honored with the Brit Global Success Award.

In 2014 and 2015, I was fortunate enough to bag the Brit Award for Best British Video, with “Best Song Ever” being recognized in 2014 and “You & I” in 2015.

'We all let you down': Sharon Osbourne claims music industry failed to support Liam Payne after his former X Factor mentor Simon Cowell found himself in firing line for 'exploiting young stars'
'We all let you down': Sharon Osbourne claims music industry failed to support Liam Payne after his former X Factor mentor Simon Cowell found himself in firing line for 'exploiting young stars'

Following Malik’s departure from the group, the remaining quartet clinched the Best Artist Video award for “Drag Me Down” in 2016. A year after that, they bagged the same accolade for their work titled “History”.

After the disbandment of One Direction in January 2016, Zayn Payne initiated his solo journey and unveiled his debut single “Strip That Down,” which featured Quavo, approximately a year and a half later in June 2017.

The single charted at number three while his second single was Get Low, which peaked at 26.

His third single, Bedroom Floor, went to number 21.

Later on, he collaborated with artist Rita Ora on the song “For You,” which served as the theme for Fifty Shades Freed in 2018. This collaboration proved to be even more popular, reaching the eighth spot on the music charts.

Then came Familiar with Colombian superstar J Balvin, which went to number 14.

He also released an album, LP1, which went to number 17 in December 2019.

Music industry veteran Steve Finan, who’s married to Olympic heptathlete Denise Lewis, oversaw Liam’s career.

Last August, Payne delayed his planned tour of South America due to a severe case of kidney infection.

On Wednesday, Liam fell approximately 45 feet from the third level of the Casa Sur Hotel in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Later, medical professionals declared that he had passed away.

'We all let you down': Sharon Osbourne claims music industry failed to support Liam Payne after his former X Factor mentor Simon Cowell found himself in firing line for 'exploiting young stars'

Initially, Payne and his girlfriend Kate Cassidy planned to stay in Argentina for just five days, but instead, they remained there for a span of two full weeks following their arrival in South America on September 30.

In my role as a lifestyle expert, I’d rephrase that situation like this: “I found myself in a scenario where authorities had to intervene due to a potentially intoxicated individual displaying aggressive behavior at a hotel.

Not long after that, employees at the hotel became aware of a strong noise coming from the courtyard. It was around 5 pm local time when they found the body of the singer from Wolverhampton.

Astounded spectators congregated outside as law enforcement established a barrier, allowing forensic specialists clad in white safety garb and blue gloves to enter and depart the scene.

According to local news sources, the celebrity was reportedly behaving strangely in the hotel lobby and broke his laptop. He then needed assistance to be taken back to his room.

Universal Music Group no longer lists Liam as one of their artists.

Capitol Records still looks after Niall, 31, as well as Katy Perry and Lewis Capaldi.

Universal has been contacted for comment.

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2024-10-18 10:53

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