Louis Tomlinson. – Foto: Instagram @louist91
Louis Tomlinson, former One Direction member, told Rolling Stone UK he cannot envision the band reuniting without the late Liam Payne. The interview took place in London in early October 2025, reflecting the impact of Payne’s death on October 16, 2024, in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Tomlinson, 33, said he once hoped for at least a one-off show, but now considers such a possibility surprising.
The statement comes amid ongoing rumors of a reunion among surviving members, fueled by projects like a Netflix documentary. Payne, 31, died after falling from the third floor of a hotel in an incident under investigation as an accident. The surviving members—Tomlinson, Harry Styles, Niall Horan, and Zayn Malik—issued a joint statement expressing devastation.
Statement marks emotional shift
Tomlinson shared that Payne’s loss changed his outlook on the group formed in 2010 on The X Factor. He previously entertained the idea of a single performance. Now, Payne’s absence makes that scenario unlikely for him.
Louis Tomlinson falou à Rolling Stone UK que não imagina uma reunião do One Direction sem Liam Payne:
“Antes do falecimento de Liam, eu sempre tinha a ideia no fundo da minha mente. Algo como: ‘Tenho certeza de que faremos algo, nem que seja um único show’, mas agora eu… pic.twitter.com/CbjgJxDHDs
— Tracklist (@tracklist) October 6, 2025
The interview highlighted the brotherly bond among members, with Tomlinson describing Payne as positive and influential.
Band’s context and lasting legacy
One Direction, formed in 2010, sold over 70 million records worldwide. The group released five platinum-certified studio albums, four hitting number one. Zayn Malik left in 2015, leading to an indefinite hiatus after Made in the A.M.
The band shaped a generation of fans with hits like “What Makes You Beautiful” and “Story of My Life.” In 2020, members reconnected online, sparking speculation.
After Payne’s death, the band’s albums re-entered charts, including the top 40 in the UK Albums Chart and Billboard 200. The surviving members attended his funeral in November 2024 in London.
Solo projects and personal reflections
Tomlinson released his third solo album, How Did I Get Here?, in January 2025, with the single “Lemonade” exploring psychedelic pop. He recorded parts in Los Angeles, rural England, and a songwriting camp in Costa Rica.
- The album reflects growing confidence, with catchy choruses and themes of resilience.
- Tomlinson performed at the Rolling Stone UK Awards in 2023 with “Out of My System.”
- He is a father to Freddie Reign, born in 2016, balancing career and parenthood.
Payne released “Strip That Down” in 2017 and was a father to Bear Grey with Cheryl Cole.
Partial reunion with Zayn Malik on Netflix
Zayn Malik and Louis Tomlinson are filming a three-part Netflix documentary, set for release in 2026. The project follows a road trip across the US, discussing friendship, fatherhood, and Payne’s loss.
The production, partnered with Campfire Studios, excludes Styles and Horan. It focuses on solo careers and collective grief, with a multimillion-dollar deal akin to documentaries by Taylor Swift and Blackpink.
Tomlinson said he awaits fan reactions but is focused on the present.
Impact of loss on survivors
Payne’s death prompted individual tributes. Tomlinson posted a photo, calling him a brother. Malik wrote about unfulfilled conversations. Styles and Horan shared messages of grief.
- All One Direction members have solo tracks with over 500 million Spotify streams, a unique feat for a group.
- Rumors of a BRIT Awards 2025 tribute did not materialize, with a video honoring Payne instead.
- Tomlinson’s representative said he “struggles” with the idea of performing without Payne.
The event underscores the end of a full band reunion.
Rumors and denials over the years
Reunion speculation began in 2020 when Payne mentioned anniversary talks. In 2023, Tomlinson called the band’s end “another loss.”
Malik, in 2023, said the group grew “tired” of each other by 2015. The Netflix documentary marks the first public collaboration between Malik and Tomlinson since then.
Tomlinson avoided details about Styles and Horan, focusing on his journey.
Vision for individual future
Tomlinson plans arena tours for his new album across Europe. He praised fans for support during transitions.
Reflecting on 15 years in the industry, he feels his solo career remains fresh. Projects like the documentary keep the legacy alive without pressure for collective returns.
The Rolling Stone UK interview, featured on the October 2025 cover, signals artistic maturity.
