Simon Cowell faced backlash over Liam Payne’s death today, with X Factor’s Katie Waissel declaring that “we all know the truth” and Rebecca Ferguson criticizing the “exploitation and speculation of young stars”.
The former One Direction singer, 31, yesterday jumped 45 feet from a third floor into the courtyard of the Casa Sur Hotel in Buenos Aires, prompting a wave of tributes from across the entertainment world.
Waissel, a 38-year-old singer-songwriter who auditioned alongside Payne on the 2010 series of X Factor, named Cowell in two statements in which she accused music bosses of focusing on “profits rather than people”.
Cowell, 65, was a judge on X Factor and signed One Direction to his music label, Syco.
Waissel first took to
Simon Cowell, second from left, at Winter Gardens in Blackpool yesterday for the Britain’s Got Talent auditions. They have already been canceled
Liam’s first audition for X Factor in 2008, when he was just 14 years old.
Katie Waissel, a 38-year-old singer-songwriter who auditioned alongside Payne on the 2010 series of X Factor, mentioned Cowell in two statements today.
Rebecca Ferguson, who also appeared on X Factor in 2010 alongside Payne and Waissel, also weighed in today.
“If Simon Cowell dared to make a statement about the heartbreaking and tragic loss of my dear, dear friend Liam, he would be a fool. We all know the truth… and I will make sure it comes to light.’
He later issued a lengthy statement in which he described Payne as “my confidant and my rock’, before focusing on his view on the state of the music industry.
‘Liam was kind, with a pure heart, a sharp mind and the wisdom of an old soul. “His warmth and compassion left a lasting impact on all who had the privilege of knowing him,” Waissel wrote.
“His tragic passing not only leaves an irreplaceable void in the hearts of those who loved him, but also serves as a painful reminder of the systemic neglect that persists in the industry.
‘There are those who had a responsibility to provide the care and support necessary for the well-being of young artists, but too often the focus was on profits rather than people.
‘This industry has treated talent as if it were a commodity, and the neglect of duty of care has once again caused a heartbreaking loss. We only need to look at Simon Cowell’s recent interview with Steven Bartlett, where he admits that his biggest regret is not owning the band name.
‘The real regret should be not having prioritized the emotional and physical well-being of the artists who placed their trust in these institutions. Contracts, whether for television shows or record deals, carry a legal and moral duty of care that must be respected.’
Waissel came to X for the first time last night to reveal her anguish over her friend’s death.
He later issued a lengthy statement in which he described Payne as “my confidant and my supporter,” before focusing on his views on the state of the music industry.
Waissel said his heart “breaks” for Payne’s family and that he was “deeply sorry for everything that happened.”
He added: “The change the industry so desperately needs will come and we will honor his legacy until it comes.” Keep singing in heaven, my friend. All my love, Katie.’
Rebecca Ferguson, who also appeared on his career.
Today the singer released her own tribute to Payne on X, writing: ‘It’s always a hotel room! We both met at Euston station and shared the taxi together to X Factor, young, innocent and oblivious to fame.
‘I can’t help but think of that little boy who was hopeful and looking forward to the bright future that awaited him. If he hadn’t gotten on that train and that taxi, I think he would be alive today.
‘I have spoken for years about the exploitation and speculation of young stars and its effects; many of us still live with the consequences and PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder).
‘Today many of us are devastated and reflective because it has finally claimed its first victim. Rest in peace Liam, I hope you find peace on the other side and love for your mother and family x.’
Ferguson, who also appeared on X Factor in 2010 alongside Payne and Waissel, also shared his thoughts on X.
Liam giving an interview on X Factor when he was 14
Payne in a selfie he shared from Argentina hours before his tragic death
Cowell pictured in front of an audience in Blackpool last night
It comes as Payne’s family described feeling “heartbroken” by his tragic and untimely death, adding that the former One Direction star will “forever live in our hearts”.
Payne’s relatives said in an emotional statement: ‘We are heartbroken. Liam will forever live in our hearts and we will remember him for his kind, funny and brave soul.
“We support each other as best we can as a family and ask for privacy and space at this terrible time.”
Payne’s uncle Roger Harris also told MailOnline: “We are all deeply saddened and trying to come to terms with it.” I just hope everyone gives them some privacy and lets them accept it. That’s all I can say.
Additionally, another relative speaking at the Payne family home in Wolverhampton told MailOnline: “We are completely devastated by the news.”
The singer died after falling from the third-floor balcony of the Casa Sur Hotel in Buenos Aires.
MailOnline has contacted Syco for comment.