The death of Liam Payne in October 2024 sent shockwaves around the world, leaving millions of fans heartbroken. Both those who followed his solo career and those who knew him from his time with One Direction.
His sudden passing, after a fall from the third floor of a hotel in Buenos Aires, Argentina, led to a detailed investigation. As a result, five people—including several hotel employees—were formally charged. They face accusations of negligence and of providing substances that may have compromised his safety and well-being.
According to the autopsy and toxicology report, shared by both the police and the prosecutor’s office, Liam was in a highly altered state of perception at the time of the accident. His blood alcohol level was found to be three times higher than the legal limit for driving in the United States.
Seven months after his passing, it’s been revealed that Liam Payne left behind a multi-million-pound estate without a will. The total value of his assets, including earnings, properties, and other belongings, is estimated at more than £24 million—roughly $31.8 million USD.
As reported by Billboard, one of the people now managing his estate is Cheryl Cole, Liam’s former partner. Since the two were never married, Kate Cassidy—his last known partner—does not hold any legal role in the matter. Cheryl, on the other hand, is the mother and legal guardian of their 8-year-old son, Bear, who would be first in line to inherit under UK inheritance laws.
“Liam was not only a pop star and celebrity, he was a son, a brother, an uncle, a dear friend and a father to our 7 year old son. A son that now has to face the reality of never seeing his father again,” read part of a farewell letter reflecting on the media speculation following his sudden death.
Girls Aloud’s Cheryl Cole, mother of Liam Payne’s son Bear, pays tribute to the late singer. pic.twitter.com/hglh718dof
— Pop Base (@PopBase) October 18, 2024
Legal documents also mention Richard Mark Bray, a lawyer with experience in the music industry, as having a role in handling parts of the estate. According to official records, the gross value of Liam’s estate was over £28 million. However, after debts and other expenses were subtracted, the final amount came to £24 million.