Zayn Malik paid tribute to his friend and former bandmate Liam Payne during a recent show in England.
On Saturday, Malik took time at the end of his set to honor the late singer with a text display that read "Liam Payne 1993-2024," along with the message, "Love you bro," and a heart graphic. In TikTok videos, fans can be heard crying and cheering for the emotional moment.
Malik had originally postponed the U.S. leg of his Stairway to the Sky tour when Payne died after falling from a hotel balcony in Argentina. Saturday night's show was Malik's first since Payne's death. The tour has several dates scheduled in England, including Manchester and London.
Payne's funeral was held on Wednesday in a private service in Amersham, England. All of Payne's One Direction bandmates (Malik, Harry Styles, Niall Horan, and Louis Tomlinson) were present.
Last month, following Payne's death, the musicians released a statement expressing their sadness over the news and how they'll remember and honor his legacy.
"We're completely devastated by the news of Liam's passing," they said. "In time, and when everyone is able to, there will be more to say. But for now, we will take some time to grieve and process the loss of our brother, who we loved dearly. The memories we shared with him will be treasured forever."
Malik also shared a touching message to his friend, explaining how he never got to say how grateful he was that Payne supported him through challenging moments. He also called Payne a brother.
"I never got to thank you for supporting me through some of the most difficult times in my life," he wrote. "When I was missing home as a 17 year oldkid you would always be there with a positive outlook and reassuring smile and let me know that you were my friend and that I loved."
