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One Direction’s Decision About Reuniting for the BRITs as a Tribute to Liam Payne

Harry Styles has reportedly denied the possibility of the band reuniting, in agreement with the rest of the group, according to the British press

Following Liam Payne’s tragic passing in October 2024, rumors quickly spread about a One Direction reunion at the upcoming BRIT Awards 2025 to honor their late bandmate. However, reports confirm that no such reunion will take place, as the remaining members—Harry Styles, Niall Horan, Louis Tomlinson, and Zayn Malik—have chosen to grieve privately rather than perform together on stage.

According to The Scottish Sun, the BRIT Awards organizers had reached out to the former bandmates with a proposal for a special tribute performance during the March 1 ceremony at London’s O2 Arena. The idea, however, was ultimately turned down by the group, who felt that a public performance would be too overwhelming and not the right way to honor their friend.

Former One Direction band members Harry Styles
Former One Direction band members Harry Styles (C) and Niall Horan leave after attending the funeral service of the late One Direction singer Liam Payne, at a St Mary’s church in Amersham, west of London on November 20, 2024. The funeral of former One Direction singer Liam Payne who died last month after falling from his Buenos Aires hotel room was held on Wednesday. JUSTIN TALLIS / AFP

«It has been a really emotional time for the lads, and it was decided it would just be too much,» an insider revealed. «They have grieved in private and don’t feel the need to do a big, showy tribute for the sake of it.” Additionally, logistical challenges also made a reunion difficult, with Zayn Malik currently living in the United States. The same source explained, “Apart from anything else, Zayn lives in America now, and they are all at different places in life. A One Direction reunion is not on the cards at all.” (The Scottish Sun)

Harry Styles ‘Prioritizes Solo Career Over Reunion’

While all the members reportedly declined the BRITs invitation, Harry Styles was particularly firm in his decision. Sources claim that the Grammy-winning artist has «no interest» in revisiting his boyband past and is fully focused on his solo career, with a new album and world tour on the horizon.

According to MEAWW, Styles believes that a One Direction reunion would detract from his own artistic trajectory. A source close to the singer stated: «Harry has put the kibosh on reuniting with his remaining One Direction bandmates because he has no interest in dimming his own star.»

Harry Styles leaves following the funeral of singer Liam Payne
Harry Styles leaves following the funeral of singer Liam Payne, former member of One Direction, on November 20, 2024 in Amersham, United Kingdom. Dan Kitwood/Getty Images

Despite the absence of a One Direction performance, the BRIT Awards will still honor Liam Payne’s legacy in a heartfelt way. Comedian Jack Whitehall, a close friend of Liam, is expected to lead the tribute segment. National World reports that the event organizers are working to ensure that Liam’s contributions are properly recognized, stating that the tribute will be «a strong section of the show and not simply an In Memoriam name-check.»

A Private Farewell to Liam Payne

Liam Payne’s untimely passing at the age of 31, caused by a fall from a hotel balcony in Buenos Aires, shocked fans and friends alike. While a One Direction reunion may not be happening, the group continues to honor Liam’s memory privately, choosing to reflect on their shared experiences in a way that feels personal to them.

The BRIT Awards 2025 will feature performances from artists such as Sabrina Carpenter, Sam Fender, and Jorja Smith, ensuring that music remains at the heart of the ceremony.

While fans may be disappointed that One Direction will not reunite, Liam Payne’s legacy will undoubtedly be honored, and his impact on music will live on.