What we know about Liam Payne's memorial statue and final music
The One Direction singer died after a fall from a hotel balcony in Argentina three weeks ago, and plans are progressing to mark his life.
It's been three weeks since the news of Liam Payne's death aged just 31 after he fell from a hotel balcony in Argentina, and reports suggest that plans for his funeral are being finalised.
The One Direction star was in Buenos Aires when he died on 16 October, and with plans for a memorial statue, uncertainty over the release of his final music and a wider discussion about duty of care for young stars, this is the latest news on remembering the singer and his legacy.
Memorial statue
One Direction's global fanbase have created memorials to Payne in locations around the world, but they are hoping for something more permanent with a statue suggested.
Fans are campaigning for a statue or mural in Wolverhampton to act as a place to remember the star's life and career.
An online petition reads: "The recent passing of Liam Payne has touched the hearts of many, not just the unbreakable community of One Direction fans, but people worldwide. As individuals who have been profoundly impacted by the loss of this amazing talent, we ask for a permanent structure or mural to be erected in Wolverhampton in his honour.
"We propose that the city, partnered with local artists, can create a memorial that reflects the spirit and essence of Liam Payne – his roots, his musical journey, and his incredible contribution to the international music community. This act of remembrance can provide comfort and solace to those who have been touched by his life and passing."
Will Liam Payne's final music be released?
Payne was reportedly dropped by his label Universal Music shortly before his death, despite working on new solo music.
He had recently recorded track Do No Wrong with US musician Sam Pounds, which his collaborator had been planning on releasing last week. However, it was postponed out of respect for his family's feelings.
Read more:
What we know as Liam Payne's first posthumous single Do No Wrong delayed
Liam Payne's final big project and Netflix show before his death
Pounds posted on X: "Today I'm deciding to hold Do No Wrong and leave those liberties up to all family members. I want all proceeds to go to a charity of their choosing (or however they desire). Even though we all love the song it's not the time yet. We are all still mourning the passing of Liam and I want the family to mourn in peace and in prayer. We will all wait."
What X Factor stars have said about duty of care
In the wake of Payne's death, former X Factor contestants who have been vocal critics of the show's duty of care processes spoke out about their experiences.
The day after his death, Rebecca Ferguson who competed on the ITV show in the same year as him posted on social media that she believed he would "be alive today" if he had not appeared on the TV contest.
She added: "I've spoken for years about the exploitation and profiteering of young stars and the effects - many of us are still living with the aftermath and the PTSD [post traumatic stress disorder]. Many of us are devastated and reflective today as it has finally taken its first victim."
Echoing her sentiments was another former X Factor co-star, Katie Waissel, who wrote: "His tragic passing not only leaves an irreplaceable void in the hearts of those who loved him but also serves as a painful reminder of the systemic neglect that persists in the industry.
"There are those who had a responsibility to provide the care and support necessary for the well-being of young artists, but too often, the focus remained on profits rather than the people...The change the industry so desperately needs will come, and we will honour your legacy until it does."
A petition calling for legislation to protect the mental health of artists in the entertainment industry, following the death of Liam Payne, has received more than 134,000 signatures.
For confidential emotional support contact The Samaritans at any time by calling 116 123 or emailing jo@samaritans.org
