Zayn Malik honored his late One Direction bandmate, Liam Payne, during his show at the O2 Academy Leeds on Saturday night.
Concluding his performance, Malik unveiled a heartfelt message displayed on stage, reading, “Love you bro,” alongside Payne’s name and the years marking his birth and untimely passing. The tribute was accompanied by a pink heart and has since gone viral on social media.
Payne tragically died last month at age 31 after falling from a hotel balcony in Argentina.
His funeral was held on Wednesday in Amersham, Buckinghamshire, where Malik joined Harry Styles, Louis Tomlinson, Niall Horan, and Payne’s loved ones, including his girlfriend Kate Cassidy and former partner Cheryl, to pay their respects.
Malik’s current tour, Stairway to the Sky, has been deeply affected by Payne’s death. Initially set to kick off in Edinburgh earlier this week, Malik postponed two shows at the O2 Academy Edinburgh due to “unforeseen circumstances.” These concerts have been rescheduled for December, with all original tickets remaining valid.
The singer also delayed the US leg of his tour, originally scheduled for October, following Payne’s passing. Malik shared the news with fans, stating, “Given the heartbreaking loss experienced this week, I’ve made the decision to postpone the US leg of the Stairway to the Sky Tour.” The rescheduled dates are now set for January, and Malik expressed gratitude to his fans for their patience and understanding.
During his Leeds show, Malik performed hits like Pillowtalk and My Woman.
Many fans anticipated a tribute to Payne, which Malik delivered in a poignant final act.
Malik and Payne rose to international stardom as members of One Direction, formed on The X Factor in 2010.
Malik left the group in 2015 to pursue a solo career, and the band disbanded the following year.
In the wake of Payne’s death, Malik and his former bandmates shared heartfelt tributes online, remembering him as a cherished “brother” and a vital part of their journey.
“I loved and respected you dearly,” Malik wrote in an emotional post. “I will cherish all the memories I have with you in my heart forever. There are no words that justify or explain how I feel right now other than beyond devastated. I hope that wherever you are right now, you are good, at peace, and know how loved you are.”
As Malik continues his tour, Payne’s memory remains a central and deeply felt presence in his performances, resonating with fans and fellow bandmates alike.
Also read: Ariana Grande Opens Up About Channeling Personal Loss For Wicked Role
