Sharon Osbourne slams music industry after Liam Payne's death in emotional tribute: 'We let you down'

Sharon Osbourne worked with Liam Payne when One Direction returned to 'The X Factor' in 2013
PUBLISHED OCT 18, 2024
Sharon Osbourne pays tribute to Liam Payne, says the music industry 'let him down' (Getty Images)(Photo by Karwai Tang/WireImage)
Sharon Osbourne pays tribute to Liam Payne, says the music industry 'let him down' (Getty Images)(Photo by Karwai Tang/WireImage)

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Sharon Osbourne has expressed her deep sorrow over the tragic death of Liam Payne, who died on Wednesday at the age of 31 after falling from a hotel balcony in Buenos Aires, as reported by The Daily Mail.

In an emotional Instagram post, Osbourne, who has a long history in the music industry and worked with Payne when One Direction returned to 'The X Factor' in 2013, shared her thoughts on how the industry failed to support the young star.

Sharon Osbourne pays emotional tribute to Liam Payne

Osbourne’s heartfelt tribute addressed the pressures Payne faced from a young age, when he was catapulted into the spotlight as part of one of the world’s biggest boy bands.

She lamented the lack of support he received during his struggles. "Liam, my heart aches. We all let you down. Where was this industry when you needed them?" Osbourne wrote, sharing a photo of the late singer.


 
 
 
 
 
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A post shared by Sharon Osbourne (@sharonosbourne)


 

She poignantly added, "You were just a kid when you entered one of the toughest industries in the world. Who was in your corner? Rest in peace my friend."

It has also been revealed that Payne was dropped by his record label, Universal Music, just days before his death. Originally signed to Sony Music as part of One Direction, Payne launched his solo career with Capitol Records, a subsidiary of Universal, in 2016. The signing had been a high point for the young artist, with the deal reportedly being very lucrative.

LONDON, ENGLAND - SEPTEMBER 03: Liam Payne visits the Kiss FM Studio's on September 03, 2019 in Lond
The former 'One Direction' star, Liam Payne died on October 16, at just 31 after a fatal fall from the third floor of his hotel balcony (Getty Images)

However, during a recent restructuring at Universal, Payne came under the main label, and his contract was not renewed.

Universal Music Group expressed their grief over his death, posting a tribute to Payne on Instagram, "We are devastated by the tragic passing of Liam Payne."


 
 
 
 
 
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A post shared by Universal Music Group (@universalmusicgroup)


 

Payne’s death, which occurred after a fall from a third-floor balcony at the Casa Sur hotel, has sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry.

Sharon Osbourne’s emotional tribute to Liam Payne sparks major online reactions

LOS ANGELES, CA - JANUARY 11:  TV personality Sharon Osbourne attends the G'Day USA Los Angeles Blac
Sharon Osbourne’s tribute to Liam Payne draws widespread reactions from fans online (Getty Images)

Sharon Osbourne’s heartfelt tribute to Liam Payne following his tragic death has resonated deeply with fans, sparking an outpouring of emotional responses across social media.

Osbourne’s candid reflection, in which she criticized the music industry for failing to support Payne during his struggles, garnered widespread praise for its honesty and empathy.

Fans and followers flooded Osbourne’s post with messages of agreement and sorrow.

One user commented, "This is probably the most honest thing anyone could say. A lot of respect. So sad," while another added, "Thank you for saying this Sharon. Our hearts collectively ache rn, sending lots of love and strength to those who knew him and us fans all over the world!!"

Many users reflected on the pressure Payne faced from the media and social platforms. "I have to agree on this one. All I’ve seen the past few weeks was abuse on socials for Liam, not even a One Direction fan but where was the help when needed? God rest his soul," one user shared.

"The industry is never there. The industry is too busy trying to shine. Behind the lights is very dark," one user noted.

Another added, "That’s the saddest part. Why was he on his own in that city and feeling so alone at that time? Heartbreaking."

"Well said Sharon," a user said.

This article contains remarks made on the Internet by individual people and organizations. MEAWW cannot confirm them independently and does not support claims or opinions being made online

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