Liam Payne’s father, Geoff Payne, reportedly made desperate attempts to have his son committed to a psychiatric treatment facility months before his tragic death at the age of 31.
According to Rolling Stone, Geoff took these measures in a bid to protect Liam, whose struggles with mental health and substance addiction had become increasingly severe.
A Father’s Attempt to Save His Son
Liam Payne’s health had been a growing concern in the months leading up to his passing.
In April 2024, the former One Direction singer was hospitalized in what was described as a “serious condition.”
At the time, those closest to him feared for his well-being, prompting his father to intervene in an effort to get him the help he needed.
The Rolling Stone report suggests that Liam began the year in a fragile state. He was admitted to a rehabilitation center in Spain in April, the same month he released his final single, Teardrops. However, he reportedly left the program before completing treatment. In the weeks that followed, his condition deteriorated, and he relapsed. Concerned for his safety, Geoff attempted to have his son placed in psychiatric care, but Liam refused to comply.
Concerns Over Liam’s Health and Career
As Liam battled his personal demons, concerns arose regarding his professional commitments. Sources claim that his management team was reluctant to allow him to proceed with his planned South American tour, believing he was in no condition to perform. Additionally, he reportedly missed several key promotional events for Teardrops, including scheduled interviews and performances.
These issues ultimately led to his record label, Universal Republic, severing ties with him. A source explained to Rolling Stone, “It was decided by the label, given these factors combined with concerns for his health, to terminate the working relationship rather than further release music.” The decision was legally formalized by September 2024, marking a significant turning point in Liam’s career.
A Glimpse of Stability in Florida
Despite his struggles, those close to Liam believed he was in a better place in the weeks leading up to his passing. Around the time of his split from Universal Republic, he had relocated to Wellington, Florida, where he lived at a polo club.
Friends recalled that he spent his days immersed in creative activities such as drawing and songwriting. He also took up horseback riding and played polo, which appeared to give him a sense of stability. Geoff himself stated in a witness statement to Argentine prosecutors that “Liam was playing polo and looked good,” suggesting that he seemed to be on the path to recovery.
Legal Battle Over Liam’s Death
In the aftermath of Liam’s tragic death, Geoff Payne has found himself entangled in a legal battle. Rogelio “Roger” Nores, a businessman and close friend of Liam, is suing Geoff for $10 million in a defamation lawsuit filed in Palm Beach, Florida.
Nores was one of the last people to see Liam alive before he fell from a third-floor hotel balcony in Buenos Aires on October 16, 2024. Argentine authorities have charged Nores with manslaughter, accusing him of abandoning Liam despite knowing he was incapable of looking after himself due to his struggles with addiction.
Judge Laura Bruniard stated that Nores “failed to fulfill his duties of care, assistance, and help” toward Liam. Alongside Nores, four hotel staff members—including the manager, receptionist, and a waiter—have also been charged in connection with the singer’s death.
Nores Fights Back Against the Allegations
Nores has strongly denied any wrongdoing and claims that Geoff’s statements to Argentine police have directly contributed to his legal troubles. His lawsuit alleges that Geoff made “false and defamatory” claims in sworn statements, which led to his arrest.
Among the disputed claims, Geoff allegedly told police that Nores and Liam’s girlfriend, Kate Cassidy, were acting as the singer’s caretakers. Nores refutes this, insisting that while he was a close friend of Liam, he was never responsible for his medical care.
Additionally, Geoff reportedly claimed that Nores introduced Liam to a new psychiatrist in Florida after his previous doctor resigned and that Nores withheld information about Liam’s addiction struggles. However, Nores argues that no such psychiatrist existed and that this statement is entirely fabricated.
Furthermore, Geoff is said to have told investigators that Liam was unable to be left alone, did not have his own phone, and could only be contacted through Kate or Nores. In response, Nores insists that Liam frequently spent time alone and maintained possession of his phone, except for a brief period when it was damaged during an argument with Kate.
The Lawsuit’s Impact
Nores’ lawsuit claims that Geoff’s statements have caused him irreparable harm, both personally and professionally. His legal team has demanded a retraction and correction of the statements made to Argentine authorities.
The lawsuit states: “Defendant Geoff knew or should have known and could reasonably foresee that the false statements would be the proximate cause of Plaintiff’s injury and damages in Palm Beach County, Florida, and globally in all respects.”
Nores has pledged that any financial proceeds from the lawsuit will be donated to Liam’s son, Bear.
A Tragic End to a Troubled Journey
Liam Payne’s death shocked fans worldwide and cast a spotlight on the struggles he faced behind the scenes. Despite his father’s efforts to secure psychiatric care for him, Liam ultimately lost his battle with addiction and mental health issues.
As legal proceedings continue, the controversy surrounding his final days remains unresolved. While some blame those who were closest to him, others argue that Liam was a victim of his own demons. Regardless of the outcome, his untimely passing serves as a heartbreaking reminder of the challenges faced by many in the entertainment industry.
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