Nicole Scherzinger was instrumental in forming the global sensation One Direction and maintained a close bond with Liam Payne until his untimely passing.
The Pussycat Dolls icon, 46, was part of the X Factor judging team that brought together Liam Payne with fellow contestants Louis Tomlinson, Niall Horan, Harry Styles, and Zayn Malik to create the boy band phenomenon in 2010.
It has now recently come to light that she remained in contact with Liam right up until his tragic death and was even texting him on the day that he died. The 31-year-old singer passed away in Argentina on October 16 following a fatal fall from a third floor balcony and heartfelt tributes continue to pour in, the Mirror reports.
Andrew Lloyd Webber, who worked closely with Nicole on the Broadway musical Sunset Blvd, shared insights into their connection. He disclosed to Billboard: “I suppose something that hasn’t been said, and I suppose I could say, is that of course she mentored Liam, from One Direction.”
He added: “On the Wednesday when he died, she was still texting him that day.”
Despite the devastating news, Nicole went on to perform as Norma Desmond in the Broadway show, a decision that Andrew lauded, saying: “The fact that she even did the show at all is extraordinary. I mean, she is an amazing, amazing woman. She is without any question one of the finest performers I’ve ever worked with.”
Footage from X Factor auditions 14 years ago has resurfaced, showing Nicole Scherzinger, Louis Walsh, and Simon Cowell contemplating the formation of a boy band. “This one. Right here,” Nicole remarked as she pointed at a photo of Liam Payne, suggesting he join other potential bandmates.
She added: “If he’s the standout, then he could be the leader.” Liam was poised to reunite with Nicole on a judging panel for Netflix’s new show ‘Building The Band’.
The concept involves assembling a music group whose members won’t meet until their final unveiling. Alongside Nicole, the panel was set to feature Kelly Rowland of Destiny’s Child and AJ McLean of the Backstreet Boys, who would also host the series.
Netflix announced: “As former members of The Pussycat Dolls, Destiny’s Child, One Direction, and the Backstreet Boys, respectively, these hitmakers will bring their unparalleled expertise and years of personal experience to the competition.”
Production had commenced, with the celebrities seen in Manchester for rehearsals. Liam was spotted at Manchester’s Sexy Fish restaurant with his girlfriend, influencer Kate Cassidy. The future of the show remains uncertain after the tragic passing of Liam.
His former One Direction bandmates have expressed their profound sorrow, releasing a statement that read: “We’re completely devastated by the news of Liam’s passing. 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.”
Get the latest celebrity gossip and telly news sent straight to your inbox. Sign up to our daily Showbiz newsletter here.