RIP: One Direction Was ‘In Talks’ For a Reunion (with Zayn Malik) Before Liam Payne’s Death

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One Direction almost made their long-awaited reunion prior to Liam Payne‘s death.

All five original members—including Zayn Malik, who left the group in 2015—were “in talks to do one final reunion show” before Liam’s death on October 16.

While that has obviously been put on pause, the source says a reunion is still on the table.

“The guys would love to do a tribute to Liam. They’re all so devastated right now they can’t even think about that as a legitimate project, but it has been discussed,” the insider claimed

“[Liam’s death] was a wake-up call for all of them. Prior, they kept in touch sporadically but didn’t have close friendships at all,” the source told the outlet, noting that the former bandmates have since pledged to mend their relationships.

“They’re all still mourning but are checking in on each other and feel closer than they have in years,” the insider added. “It brought them back together.”

Former One Direction members Zayn, Harry Styles, Louis Tomlinson and Niall Horan gathered at the funeral of their former bandmate on November 20, one month after his tragic passing in Argentina. Liam’s death occurred at the CasaSur Palermo Hotel in Buenos Aires, Argentina, where he fell from the third floor while under the influence of drugs and alcohol.

In the wake of the devastating news, the members of One Direction shared personal tributes along with a collective statement, expressing their profound grief.

“We are completely devastated by the death of our former bandmate, who we called our ‘brother,’” Harry, Niall, Louis, and Zayn said in a joint message posted to the band’s Instagram. “The memories we shared with him will be treasured forever. For now, our thoughts are with his family, his friends, and the fans who loved him alongside us. We will miss him terribly. We love you, Liam.”

Their statement concluded: “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.”