Godwin ObajeWhile there’s no official confirmation that Liam Payne planned to become an American citizen before his untimely death, those close to the singer say his life and career were undeniably rooted in both sides of the Atlantic. With a flourishing solo career in the U.S., a long-term relationship with American influencer Kate Cassidy, and a final project filmed for Netflix alongside U.S. music icons, Payne’s connection to the States paints a vivid picture of a star who may have been dreaming of a more permanent future in America.
Payne, who died at 31 in October 2024 following a fatal fall from a hotel balcony in Buenos Aires, left behind a legacy filled with both triumph and tragedy. He rose to international stardom as part of One Direction, but in later years, he forged a solo identity, working with American artists like Quavo, Jonas Blue, and Lennon Stella. His final appearance on Building the Band, a U.S.-based Netflix reality series featuring Kelly Rowland and Nicole Scherzinger, was filmed in summer 2024 and aired posthumously.
His family supported the show’s release following his death, with fans taking to social media to express heartbreak and pride. “He deserved to be here and experience this moment with us,” one fan wrote. Payne’s role as a mentor on the show hinted at a possible new chapter—one that may have involved laying down roots in the U.S.
On a personal level, his relationship with 26-year-old American influencer Kate Cassidy was described as deeply committed. The two began dating in 2022, and according to Cassidy’s emotional appearance on On Purpose with Jay Shetty, they had openly discussed building a life together. “We talked about the future all the time,” Cassidy said. “Marriage, kids… he really wanted to create a peaceful life with me.”
Though Payne never publicly confirmed plans for U.S. citizenship, those close to him suggest it wouldn’t have been out of character. His frequent time in America, close professional collaborations, and romantic bond with Cassidy all point to a desire to forge a life across the Atlantic.
Still, those ambitions may have remained unfulfilled due to the challenges he faced. At the time of his death, Payne had been battling mental health struggles, and toxicology reports confirmed the presence of cocaine, alcohol, and prescription antidepressants. Authorities in Argentina ruled the fall accidental, citing his impaired state.
Adding to the emotional complexity is the fact that Payne died without a formal will. His £24.3 million estate is now being managed by his former partner Cheryl Tweedy, with whom he shares a son, Bear.
Payne’s life was clearly one of contrasts—global fame and personal vulnerability, public success and private pain. Yet through it all, his affinity for the U.S., both as a place of opportunity and of love, remains a poignant thread in his story. While the dream of American citizenship may have died with him, the legacy he left on both sides of the ocean continues to resonate.
Godwin Obaje
