One Direction singer Liam Payne's lasting impact on Scottish fans
By Mya McPhee and Erin Grieve
Hundreds of fans gathered in Glasgow’s George Square in the city centre on Sunday, 20 October, to pay their respects to former One Direction star Liam Payne after his untimely death. The artist died after falling approximately 45ft from his hotel balcony in Buenos Aries, Argentina on 16 October.
The memorial was organised by Liam’s fans on social media, encouraging people to come along and bring flowers and gifts to honour the memory of the singer.
Heartbroken fans recall the moment they found out about Payne’s passing.
Jenni Campbell, 18, from Glasgow, said: “I genuinely thought it was fake and I felt empty for the next five days.”
Evie Smith, 19, from Edinburgh, said: “I was completely shocked to hear about Liam’s death. It was so sudden and the last thing I ever expected to hear about.”
Ever since the band announced their hiatus in 2016, there have been talks among fans of a potential reunion. But does this recent tragedy make this impossible?
Campbell said: “One Direction truly ended when he died.
“People can say they’re going to get a reunion all they want but that’s just selfish to make his funeral about a reunion.”
Other fans disagree and think a reunion would be a positive way to keep Payne’s memory alive.
Smith said: “I think a One Direction reunion is still possible, but it will most likely be some years down the line, to honour Liam’s death in some way.”