Nicole Scherzinger has opened up about the heartbreaking final messages she exchanged with her friend, Liam Payne. The One Direction singer tragically passed away last year at the age of 35.

In a recent interview with The London Times, Scherzinger revealed that she had been exchanging casual texts with Payne on the day he died in Argentina. “It was just light chit-chat,” she said, reflecting on their friendship.

Scherzinger, who helped form One Direction on The X Factor UK in 2010, remained close to Payne over the years. They collaborated again earlier this year on Netflix’s Building the Band.

“I adored Liam. He had the kindest heart,” Scherzinger recalled. She added that she barely knew him when she first brought the band together, but their bond grew strong over time.

Liam Payne died on October 16, 2024, after falling from a third-story hotel balcony in Buenos Aires. Scherzinger learned of his death just hours before performing as Norma Desmond in the Broadway revival of Sunset Boulevard.

Despite the shock, she chose to go on with the show. “I dedicated a little part of the performance to Liam every night,” she said. “It was a moment that always reminded me of him.”

Scherzinger also reflected on the importance of compassion. “We need more kindness in the world,” she said. “Our phones help us, but they also hurt us. I wish cancel culture would end.”

Weeks after Payne’s passing, she posted on Instagram: “Dear Liam, I will forever cherish the time we shared. You brought so much joy and laughter to those who truly knew you. I will miss you and carry you in my heart.”

We welcome your contributions! Submit your blogs, opinion pieces, press releases, news story pitches, and news features to opinion@minutemirror.com.pk and minutemirrormail@gmail.com