Louis Tomlinson sticks up for Simon Cowell after he was criticised following Liam Payne’s death

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Louis Tomlinson has defended Simon Cowell after One Direction fans criticized him in the wake of Liam Payne’s recent passing.

In October 2024, the former One Direction member tragically died after falling from a third-floor hotel balcony in Buenos Aires. He was 31 years old.

Following his death, Simon faced criticism from former contestants. Katie Waissel, from X Factor, hinted at hidden issues, stating ‘we all know the truth,’ while Rebecca Ferguson spoke out against the way young performers were exploited and used for profit.

Katie, a singer-songwriter who appeared on X Factor with Liam in 2010, publicly criticized music industry executives – specifically mentioning Simon – claiming they prioritize financial gain over the well-being of artists.

However, Louis, who was in the band with Liam, thinks the people who helped One Direction become famous when they were young did a great job.

It’s easy to judge past events with the benefit of knowing what happened afterwards, but I don’t hold anyone responsible for what happened during my time in One Direction,” he explained to The Independent.

Louis explained that the biggest challenge of being in One Direction was becoming famous so quickly when they were all so young.

The hardest part, even more than all of that, was being so young and suddenly famous, with crowds of people waiting outside wherever I stayed.

Even something as simple as getting a coffee, or needing to use the restroom, feels dehumanizing when you have to be accompanied by security. It takes away your basic dignity.

Simon was said to have ‘sobbed’ uncontrollably after being told of Liam’s death. 

Sinitta told The Sun that Simon was incredibly upset. She said he usually keeps his feelings to himself, but this time he was completely overwhelmed with emotion.

He was just crying uncontrollably while holding the phone. It was the first time I realized we usually turn to him for help when we’re lost, but this time he was completely heartbroken.

He felt incredibly protective of them, as if they were his own children. He was deeply involved in their journey, feeling like a vital part of the group – almost as if he belonged with them as a full member.

Sinitta said that fan criticism over Simon’s involvement in Liam’s troubled life has been ‘unfair’.

Although some felt Simon could have done more to prevent it, she insisted Liam’s death wasn’t his fault. She explained that Liam was an adult and you can’t protect everyone from everything.

Simon met Liam when he auditioned for X Factor for the very first time at the age of 14.  

I was so saddened to hear about the passing of this incredibly talented artist. I immediately thought of how kind and funny he was, and it really struck me that he always made his fans a priority – he truly never forgot them. It’s a beautiful legacy, and I wanted to share my heartfelt tribute to him.

He wrote: ‘You never really know how you feel about someone until a moment like this happens.

Liam, I’m completely heartbroken and feel utterly empty. I want you to know how much I love and respect you. Every tear I’ve cried reminds me of you.

It’s hard to explain what I’m feeling. Today, being outside reminded me of all the wonderful times we shared.

I’d like to share the answer I consistently gave to the many people who asked me this question.

If someone asked me what Liam was like, I’d say he was kind, funny, sweet, and thoughtful. He was also incredibly talented but remained humble and focused. Plus, he truly loved music and cared deeply for his fans.

I remember telling you, when you were fourteen, that the moment wasn’t right. We promised each other we’d reconnect someday.

Many would have quit, but you persevered. You bounced back, and soon everyone knew the name Liam.

You always remembered the people who supported you, and I noticed how much time you took to connect with fans who wanted to meet you. It was clear you genuinely cared about them.

You visited me last year, not for any specific reason, but just to chat. We spent the time remembering all the good times we’d shared.

I always admired how much you loved being a father. Even after you were gone, I remembered the gentle, kind person I first met so long ago.

He continued: ‘I have met your son, Bear. He has your smile and that twinkle in his eyes you have.

‘And he will be so proud of everything you achieved. And how you achieved it.

I’ve always considered the five of you in the band like brothers, and seeing your messages today confirms that feeling.

‘And now Liam, I can see the effect you had on so many people. Because you left us too soon.

‘Rest in peace my friend. And I am sending my love, thoughts and prayers to your family. Simon X’. 

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2025-10-28 18:54