Liam Payne’s final television appearance will be released on Netflix this July, just nine months after the former One Direction star tragically died aged 31. Building the Band, which Payne filmed before his death in October 2023, sees aspiring musicians form bands without ever having met — a format likened to The Voice meets Love Is Blind. The show marked a full-circle moment for the singer, who returned to his roots in talent television, this time not as a contestant but as a mentor and judge.
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His sister Ruth Payne shared her grief and pride on social media, expressing heartbreak that Liam never had the chance to see the final version. “You’re a star Liam, you always were and always will be,” she wrote, calling his appearance in the show “amazing” and “something to be proud of”. Their sister Nicola also said the programme had helped her feel close to him again, writing, “You truly are a shining star, miss you more than words can say.”
Netflix confirmed the family had reviewed the series and supported its release, and fans have responded with overwhelming emotion. Many praised the decision to honour Payne’s work, describing the release as bittersweet. One fan commented: “Watching Liam shine like he’s still with us is going to be so hard,” while another wrote, “It aches my heart to know I was there for the finale.”
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Payne, who first found fame on The X Factor in 2010, used his platform in Building the Band to offer thoughtful advice and encouragement to contestants. The show, due to stream from 9 July, is now seen as a tribute to his legacy in music and television. Co-star AJ McLean confirmed it will be dedicated to him, noting that their shared experiences had created a strong bond. For many fans, the series will be a difficult but powerful final chance to witness Payne’s talent and warmth.
