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Simon Cowell has disclosed that he was profoundly affected by Liam Payne’s passing, prompting him to retreat to a “private place” to mourn.
The former X Factor judge, 66, played a significant role in Liam's rise to fame when he formed One Direction on the show in 2010 and shared a close bond with the young star.
Simon Cowell has revealed he fled to be alone to grieve after Liam Payne’s deathCredit: Getty
Liam passed away at the age of 31 last October after falling from a balcony in ArgentinaCredit: PA
The former X Factor judge, 66, helped launch Liam's career by forming One DirectionCredit: PA:Press Association
A heartbroken Simon is seen here at Liam’s funeralCredit: Splash
Liam passed away at the age of 31 in October last year after a tragic fall from a balcony.
Simon has now recounted his initial reaction upon hearing the heartbreaking news.
The music mogul revealed he was at an audition when he received the life-changing news.
Reflecting on the impact, Simon shared with the Daily Mail : “Nothing has affected me like that since I lost my mother and father. I recall that feeling, and this was almost as intense.”
He explained that he required time alone to process his grief.
He told his partner Lauren Silverman: “I need to go away by myself for a few days.”
When asked about his destination, he replied: “A private place. Like a retreat, where I could disconnect. I spent that time meditating and reflecting, as I was incredibly upset. Eventually, you have to return to your life.”
Simon added: “I was very close to him. Of course, you drift apart over time, but it's true: you don’t fully appreciate someone until they are gone. People pass away, but when they are so talented and young, it’s particularly difficult.”
Reaching Out
Last month, Simon spoke about his feelings upon learning of Liam's death last year.
In an interview on The Interview podcast from The New York Times , he said: “It’s incredibly hard to express how you feel. It’s just shock.”
“At that moment, you’re not thinking clearly. I remember saying: ‘I really need to talk to his mother and father. Can you arrange for them to be on the phone as soon as possible?’
“As a parent, I can only imagine how devastating that must have been for them.”
“I knew his parents, and I wanted to reach out to convey my feelings. It was just terrible, absolutely terrible.”
Reflecting on his last encounter with Liam, Simon shared: “I had seen him about a year before in this room, discussing how there is more to life than just music.”
“You reach a point in your life where you have choices.”
“We just spent time together as friends. That’s why I was so shocked and surprised when I heard the news.”
Simon recently shared insights about his final conversation with LiamCredit: Alamy
Final Conversation
Grieving Simon also recently reflected on his last conversation with Liam prior to the singer’s tragic passing.
Simon had been involved with the group from the beginning, forming
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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