One Direction Members Privately Disagree Over Honoring Liam—Zayn Refuses Group Tribute
In the wake of Liam Payne’s tragic passing, fans worldwide expected a unified tribute from his former One Direction bandmates. But behind the scenes, a quiet storm is brewing—with sources claiming Zayn Malik has refused to participate in a group memorial.
According to insiders close to the situation, plans were in motion for a joint statement or even a private video tribute featuring Harry Styles, Louis Tomlinson, Niall Horan, and Zayn. But when the proposal reached Malik’s camp, the answer was allegedly short: “No.”
“It’s not animosity,” one source claimed. “Zayn just doesn’t want to be part of anything public right now—especially something that links him back to One Direction.”
This refusal has reportedly caused tension among the remaining members, particularly with Louis, who had remained closest to Liam over the years. “He’s hurt,” another insider said. “They may not have all been best friends, but Liam’s death shook them. Louis wanted unity. Zayn wanted distance.”
Fans were quick to notice Zayn’s absence from tribute posts after Liam’s passing. While the other three members posted emotional messages and throwback photos, Zayn has remained completely silent, leading to growing backlash on social media.
Some fans defend his silence, citing his longstanding discomfort with fame and his complicated history with the group. Others, however, see it as a cold move at a time that called for solidarity.
Still, those close to the situation insist the door isn’t closed. “Zayn may honor Liam in his own way, quietly,” a source said. “But right now, he’s just not ready to be part of anything public.”
Whether a full reunion tribute will happen remains unclear—but one thing’s for certain: even in grief, One Direction’s complicated brotherhood endures.