Liam Payne’s Death Leaves Music World ‘Speechless’: Zedd, Paris Hilton & More React

News of Liam Payne ‘s death has left the world stunned, with fans and music industry peers alike quickly flooding the internet with posts mourning the 31-year-old former One Direction star after news of his passing came to light Wednesday (Oct. 16).

Liam Payne, Pop Singer-Songwriter & Former One Direction Star, Dead at 31

First reported by TMZ and confirmed by CNN , Payne died Wednesday evening after suffering a fatal fall from the third floor of a hotel in Buenos Aires, according to Argentinian police. Based on Snapchats Payne posted as recently as an hour before his death was first reported, the musician was there on a trip with his girlfriend, influencer Kate Cassidy.

In the first moments after the news broke, the overall feeling online was palpable shock. “I can’t believe Liam Payne is really dead like what the f–k,” one fan wrote on X. “I know celebrities die all the time but it just hits so much harder bc that’s like the first major celeb of our generation who we grew up with.”

“why does it feel like we entered into another alternate universe…like wdym liam payne is dead,” tweeted another fan.

Meanwhile, Payne’s peers in the entertainment industry also spoke out. “So upsetting to hear the news of @LiamPayne passing😢 Sending love and condolences to his family & loved ones. 🙏 RIP my friend🥺,” tweeted Paris Hilton, while the former boy bander’s “Get Low” collaborator, Zedd, posted: “RIP Liam… I can’t believe this is real… absolutely heartbreaking …”

“damn this liam payne news got me speechless…,” wrote singer Corbyn Besson on X. “looked up to 1D so much during the wdw days.”

On Instagram Stories, Charlie Puth paid tribute to Payne. “I am in shock right now,” he wrote, sharing a throwback video and photo of him posing with the “Polaroid” singer. “He was one of the first major artists I got to work with. I can not believe he is gone…”

Liam Payne Helped Unlock One Direction's Potential

Ty Dolla $ign also took to his Story to mourn Payne, sharing videos of the late singer and writing, “Just talked to you 2 days ago my guy. Ima miss u frfr.”

J Balvin shared a photo of himself with Payne on his Story and wrote of his “Familiar” duet partner, “Rest in peace my g.”

Payne leaves behind a 7-year-old child, Bear, whom he shared with British singer Cheryl. His music career extended beyond One Direction, with the singer dropping solo music — including Billboard Hot 100 top 10 hit “Strip That Down” with Quavo — after the band dissolved in 2016.

See reactions to Liam Payne’s death below.

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