Godwin ObajeLiam Payne’s sister, Ruth Gibbins, has shared a deeply emotional tribute to her late brother ahead of the release of his final TV appearance in Netflix’s upcoming music competition series Building the Band.
The former One Direction singer, who tragically died in October 2024 at the age of 31, appears as a guest judge on the show, which is set to premiere globally on July 9. The series, hosted by AJ McLean of the Backstreet Boys, also features Nicole Scherzinger and Kelly Rowland as mentors and judges.
Sharing her thoughts on Instagram, Ruth wrote: “I didn’t know whether to share this, but it felt odd when I’ve raved about Liam’s work and achievements for the past 15 years. I’m heartbroken he never got the chance to see how brilliant he is in this show.”
She continued: “He knew he had done a good job, we all told him this when we were at filming, but watching it back, wow! You’re a star Liam, you always were and always will be. There are a range of emotions I felt watching this, but one of the main ones is immeasurable pride, always. Miss you more every day.”
Building the Band promises to be a unique addition to the music reality format. According to Netflix, the show brings together some of the most talented singers in the world, who will audition for each other without ever seeing one another — relying solely on musical compatibility, chemistry and connection.
AJ McLean teased the show as “unlike anything you have ever seen before,” adding: “Our judge and mentor Nicole Scherzinger, and guest judges Kelly Rowland and the late Liam Payne, are from some of the biggest bands of all time. This show is all about one word: chemistry. And believe me: in a band, you really need some good chemistry.”
The format sees contestants remain in separate booths during performances, focusing entirely on sound and synergy, rather than image. The goal: to form the next great music group based purely on talent and cohesion.
Payne completed filming for the show several months before his untimely passing. While fans and family continue to mourn his loss, his appearance on the series is expected to offer a poignant final glimpse into the life and passion of a performer who touched millions.
Close friend DJ Fat Tony also reflected on Payne’s personal struggles, speaking candidly about the singer’s battle with addiction. “I tried to help Liam Payne with his demons. He was incredible – a really close friend,” the DJ told The Times Magazine. “There were so many amazing times where he got clean and sober. Not everyone makes it. It’s a real shame what happened, falling off the balcony. I’m devastated by it.”
He added: “Addiction is a big part of our industry. People see being sober and clean as more problematic than being drunk and high. They’ll help you on that drink and drug journey, but not on the sober journey.”
Building the Band premieres on Netflix on July 9.
Godwin Obaje
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