Liam Payne's family have released a statement sharing their heartbreak after the 31-year-old singer's unexpected death in Argentina yesterday. The singer fell from a balcony while staying at a hotel in Buenos Aires. Fans have since gathered outside the property to mourn his loss together.

As reported by the BBC, the statement reads in full: "We are heartbroken. Liam will forever live in our hearts and we'll remember him for his kind, funny and brave soul.

"We are supporting each other the best we can as a family and ask for privacy and space at this awful time."

Liam leaves behind two siblings – his sisters Nicola and Ruth – and his parents, Geoff and Karen. He also share a 7-year-old son, Bear, with former X Factor judge and Girls Aloud star, Cheryl Tweedy, and at the time of his death was in a relationship with Kate Cassidy, an influencer.

Many celebrities have already paid tribute to Liam after the shocking news was announced, including singer Mabel, who recalled Liam providing her with "brotherly" advice and support, and The Wanted's Max George, who also praised Liam for offering him support during a difficult period of his life.

Our thoughts are with Liam's loved ones during this difficult time.

Headshot of Jennifer Savin
Jennifer Savin
Features Editor

 Jennifer Savin is Cosmopolitan UK's multiple award-winning Features Editor, who was crowned Digital Journalist of the Year for her work tackling the issues most important to young women. She regularly covers breaking news, cultural trends, health, the royals and more, using her esteemed connections to access the best experts along the way. She's grilled everyone from high-profile politicians to A-list celebrities, and has sensitively interviewed hundreds of people about their real life stories. In addition to this, Jennifer is widely known for her own undercover investigations and campaign work, which includes successfully petitioning the government for change around topics like abortion rights and image-based sexual abuse. Jennifer is also a published author, documentary consultant (helping to create BBC’s Deepfake Porn: Could You Be Next?) and a patron for Y.E.S. (a youth services charity). Alongside Cosmopolitan, Jennifer has written for The Times, Women’s Health, ELLE and numerous other publications, appeared on podcasts, and spoken on (and hosted) panels for the Women of the World Festival, the University of Manchester and more. In her spare time, Jennifer is a big fan of lipstick, leopard print and over-ordering at dinner. Follow Jennifer on Instagram, X or LinkedIn.