Strictly Come Dancing’s JB Gill shares his desire to pay tribute to Liam Payne on the BBC show after One Direction star’s tragic death

Strictly Come Dancing's JB Gill shares his desire to pay tribute to Liam Payne on the BBC show after One Direction star's tragic death

As a lifestyle expert with years of personal experience in the entertainment industry, I can wholeheartedly empathize with JB Gill’s sentiments regarding the loss of his friend Liam Payne and the pressures faced by young talent in the music world. Having been part of a successful boy band myself, I understand the unique bond that forms between group members and the importance of nurturing and protecting each other, which unfortunately doesn’t always happen in every group.


JB Gill, previously with the boy band JLS, expressed his wish to dance to a song by Liam Payne in honor of the departed star.

Working alongside professional dancer Amy Dowden for Strictly Come Dancing, the 37-year-old expressed: ‘Should there be a chance, I would adore dancing to one of my own songs. It would be a remarkable tribute.’

‘He was a very good friend, we literally met him when he was starting his journey out.

Before achieving fame with One Direction, he was simply a solo artist in the same year as our participation in X Factor, making it to the live shows.

‘I just remember him following the boys and I around.’

Strictly Come Dancing's JB Gill shares his desire to pay tribute to Liam Payne on the BBC show after One Direction star's tragic death

Strictly Come Dancing's JB Gill shares his desire to pay tribute to Liam Payne on the BBC show after One Direction star's tragic death

JB mentioned: ‘He had dreams of joining JLS, truthfully. However, when he didn’t make it past the boot camp, we encouraged him to persist and continue working hard, assuring him opportunities would come his way. I’m delighted that he managed to achieve that goal.’

As an ardent admirer, I couldn’t help but feel the weight of sorrow during my conversation at the Strictly Roundtable. The passing of my dear friend feels like an unbearable loss, a tragedy that leaves me heartbroken.

One interpretation I might offer for this passage is: ‘I’m not fully versed in every detail… However, one positive aspect I’ve noticed is that he managed to accomplish his goal – singing and sharing his talent globally.’

‘Anyone who knew him or was a fan, I believe, can draw something meaningful from this deeply saddening event.’

Talking about the challenges faced by being in a boy band, the dad of two pointed out the significant gap in maturity levels he and Liam had back then. This disparity played a crucial role.

As we navigated the X-Factor journey, we were a bit more mature compared to the members of One Direction.

Previously, I attended university, and gained some global exposure. This prior experience significantly alters the situation.

The presenter of Down on the Farm and Songs of Praise advocated for the entertainment industry to provide a more supportive environment for budding artists.

Strictly Come Dancing's JB Gill shares his desire to pay tribute to Liam Payne on the BBC show after One Direction star's tragic death
Strictly Come Dancing's JB Gill shares his desire to pay tribute to Liam Payne on the BBC show after One Direction star's tragic death

He mentioned that he doesn’t object to the idea of having a child star, but he does oppose situations where they can’t be properly cared for and safeguarded, particularly in cases involving unique individuals.

In our band (JLS), we take special care of one another. Not all groups share this bond.

He stated: “It’s not just about the band members, but also those overseeing them, including the record labels and the individuals advocating for the group. The people on stage need care and support as well.

“I’ve always found it puzzling how the entertainment industry sometimes treats artists as if they were mere commodities or assets. It may sound harsh, but in reality, it’s essential to safeguard their value.

Therefore, it’s crucial that we adapt our methods and perspectives, especially when it comes to caring for others.

As a parent, Gill finds himself particularly mindful of these hurdles, given that his kids embarked on their acting careers by starring together in a BBC drama back in 2022.

‘Not every parent has that knowledge or that understanding or that background,’ he said.

For experienced professionals in the field, it’s their responsibility to safeguard and care for those performing on stage.

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2024-10-27 03:39

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