The news of the death of Liam Payne has sparked a flood of expressions of sorrow on social media, both from fans of the former One Direction singer and from numerous stars in the music industry.
One of the most emotional responses came from Anne Twist, the mother of Harry Styles, who was a bandmate of Liam Payne in One Direction. She posted a broken red heart on a black background with the message "Just a boy...".
Anne's post received over 760,000 likes in four hours, and several of her 2.5 million followers paid tribute to Liam in the comments. One wrote: "Gone too soon and so young. Forever in our hearts, Liam".
Another wrote: "He had a huge heart. What a loss for those who knew and loved him." Another commented: "I am devastated, sad, heartbroken... Much love to all who loved him, to his family and his son, friends, and the guys."
Former One Direction member Zayn Malik's sister, Waliyha, also paid tribute to Liam after his death. She posted a photo with the late star and wrote: "I can't believe it, honestly have no words for this sad moment... I really can't believe it."
Singer Olly Murs said today on his Instagram account that he was left "speechless" after learning the tragic news and described Payne's death as "devastating". "We always had a good laugh when we saw each other, sometimes the chats were short and sweet, but when we did, it was mostly about how annoyingly good his hair always looked," Murs wrote.
"Liam shared the same passions as me, the same dreams, so to see his life end so young hits me hard, I am truly shattered and devastated for his family and, of course, for his son Bear, who has lost his father," he added.
American singer Charlie Puth, co-writer of Payne's 2017 song "Bedroom Floor," said he was shocked after learning of the tragedy. "Liam was always very kind to me. He was one of the first major artists I worked with. I can't believe he's gone... I'm so sad right now, may he rest in peace," Puth said on Instagram.
Hotel heiress Paris Hilton wrote on social media X: "It's so sad to hear the news of Liam Payne's passing. Sending love and condolences to his family and loved ones. Rest in peace, my friend."
Max George, singer of The Wanted, also used X to bid farewell to Liam Payne: "I am devastated. Liam provided me with incredible support during one of the most difficult times of my life. I will never forget him. My thoughts are with his family, friends, and fans in this horrible moment. Rest in peace, Liam."
DJ and music producer Zedd, who collaborated with Payne on the 2017 song "Get Low," described the singer's death as "absolutely heartbreaking," while American singer and rapper Ty Dolla Sign said he will "miss" Payne.
The band Backstreet Boys also paid tribute through a statement posted on X. "Words cannot express the emotions we are feeling collectively at this time, and it seems like the rest of the world is in the same boat," they stated.