Godwin ObajeLiam Payne’s Final TV Project ‘Building the Band’ to Launch on Netflix in July
Netflix has announced the upcoming release of Building the Band, the final television project featuring late pop star Liam Payne. The new music competition series, which Payne filmed prior to his death in October 2024, will premiere on the streaming platform on 9 July.
The former One Direction singer, who rose to fame alongside Louis Tomlinson, Niall Horan, Harry Styles and Zayn Malik in 2010, appears posthumously in the series. Netflix confirmed that Payne’s family “has reviewed the series and is supportive of his inclusion,” a gesture that has been met with appreciation from fans who continue to mourn the 31-year-old’s passing.
Building the Band takes a fresh approach to the music competition format. Unlike traditional talent shows, this series places creative control in the hands of the contestants themselves. According to the official show logline, “‘Building the Band brings together talented singers for a truly unique competition show where building the perfect band is all about chemistry. The singers are in complete control as they seek to form their very own bands in individual ‘booths’ without ever seeing each other. All they have to go on is musical compatibility, connection, chemistry and merit.”
The format removes the visual bias typically associated with casting and allows contestants to base their decisions solely on musical synergy. The series poses a compelling question: “What will happen when the bands finally meet, and looks, choreography and style come into play?” With its focus on artistry and authenticity, the show promises “incredible performances, compelling drama and one big goal — to find the next great music band.”
The first four episodes will be available to stream on 9 July, with two additional batches of episodes dropping on the following Wednesdays. The format is expected to keep audiences engaged with its slow-burn reveal of band formations and dramatic behind-the-scenes moments.
Produced by Remarkable Entertainment and Banijay UK, the series also boasts an impressive line-up of executive producers, including Cat Lawson, Alison Holloway, Katrina Morrison, Clara Elliot and Simon Crossley.
For Payne’s fans, the release of Building the Band offers both a celebration of his enduring musical legacy and a poignant reminder of his passion for discovering and supporting new talent. His involvement in the series adds a deeply personal note to an already emotional and innovative concept.
As the world prepares to watch Building the Band, the show is shaping up to be more than just a competition — it’s a tribute to one of modern pop’s most beloved figures and his final creative endeavour.
Godwin Obaje
