Liam Payne. Picture: Instagram
Fans of the former One Direction band member are still coming to grips with the passing of the singer Liam Payne.
The 31-year-old singer passed away on the 16th October after falling from the third floor of a balcony at a hotel in Buenos Aires in Argentina. The singer visited the country to support close friend Nial Horran who had performed at a concert a few days prior.
The announcement of his passing has since sent shockwaves in the entertainment industry with many of his industry colleagues all taking to social media to reflect on the person he was.
Meanwhile, fans also gathered in front of the hotel he spent his last few hours at, and shared tributes to the late singer.
However, it turns out the British singer has had a special place in the hearts of South Africans as well, and fans came out in numbers to celebrate Liam and his music.
The news and entertainment publication IOL reported that memorials were held in several parts of the city including Benoni, Midrand, Waterfall City Park, Durban as well as in Cape Town.
Speaking to the publication at one of the memorial held at the Sea Point Promenade in Cape Town, Tahlia Morgan, a fan of One Direction said that the group and its members held a special place in her heart.
Reflecting on her actions after hearing the news of his passing she said: “It felt like losing part of my childhood […] for me Liam was the epitome of charm.”
Describing the events that took place at Sea Point she added: “Fans shared poignant stories of how Liam’s music helped them navigate life’s challenges. We lit candles in unison, honouring his memory and impact he had on our lives. We’ll miss him forever.”
According to reports by NBC News, the singer reportedly had pink cocaine in his system when he died.
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