Liam Payne 'couldn't beat' his demons as close friend says tragic star was 'so ill'

Liam Payne's friend, hairdresser Luke Benson has spoken out about how "ill" the One Direction singer was, as he suggests he paid a heavy price for fame.

Luke shared a series of photos of Liam, paying tribute to his "little brother". Writing on Instagram Stories, the celebrity stylist wrote: "I can’t believe it. Thank you for the best times. Some of us were lucky enough to see the best version of you. I’m so sorry. You didn’t choose this side of fame. Please no one comment on or guess what happened without knowing. Be kind."

Luke added: "He was so kind. But he was so ill in ways he couldn’t beat, leading to some things he shouldn’t have done. Misguided and too trusting. Remember he was a son, dad and friend to many."

He signed off: "It was a pleasure little brother." He's one of many to share their condolences after Liam's shock death at the age of 31. More details have emerged about the circumstances leading to his horrific death, after he fell from a third floor balcony of the hotel he was staying at in Buenos Aires, Argentina.

In the wake of his passing, Liam's One Direction bandmates have said they are "completely devastated" by the news of his death, adding: "The memories we shared with him will be treasured forever."

In a statement signed "Louis, Zayn, Niall and Harry", Liam Payne's One Direction bandmates said: "We're completely devastated by the news of Liam's passing. In time, and when everyone is able to, there will be more to say. But for now, we will take some time to grieve and process the loss of our brother, who we loved dearly. The memories we shared with him will be treasured forever. For now, our thoughts are with his family, his friends, and the fans who loved him alongside us. We will miss him terribly. We love you Liam."

Liam's One Direction bandmates have said they are "completely devastated" by the news of his death, adding: "The memories we shared with him will be treasured forever."

In the heartbreaking post, shared on Instagram, Louis wrote: "I am beyond devastated to be writing this but yesterday I lost a brother. Liam was somebody I looked up to everyday, such a positive, funny, and kind soul.

"I first met Liam when he was 16 and I was 18, I was instantly amazed by his voice but more importantly as time went on I got a chance to see the kind brother I’d longed all my life for. Liam was an incredible song writer with a great sense of melody, we often spoke of getting back in the studio together to try and recreate the writing chemistry we had built up in the band.

"And for the record, Liam was in my opinion the most vital part of One Direction. His experience from a young age, his perfect pitch, his stage presence, his gift for writing. The list goes on. Thank you for shaping us Liam."

If you are struggling with mental health, you can speak to a trained advisor from Mind mental health charity on 0300 123 3393 or email

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