Netflix series filmed before Liam Payne’s fatal fall will still air as family gives blessing

Liam Payne’s final television appearance will air on Netflix months after his tragic death, with his family’s blessing. The former One Direction star filmed talent competition Building The Band earlier in 2024 before dying in a shock fall from a balcony in Buenos Aires, Argentina, in October. He was 31.

The series, also featuring Nicole Scherzinger and Kelly Rowland as judges and mentors, was hosted by Backstreet Boys star AJ McLean. Together, they worked with contestants in Manchester to form a new boyband, echoing the creation of One Direction on The X Factor in 2010.

Amid speculation that Liam’s scenes might be removed out of respect or that the show would be shelved altogether, his family have instead supported Netflix’s decision to release it. “Liam was on great form at filming so everyone’s pleased fans will get to see the ‘real’ him one last time,” a source said. “It will be bittersweet when the show is released. Netflix have gone out of their way to make sure his family are happy. Producers sent them the footage so they are fully aware of what to expect and they have given it their blessing.”

Airing Building The Band posthumously gives fans a rare opportunity to see Liam doing what he loved—mentoring young artists and working closely with industry friends. Footage includes moments of warmth, humour and reflection, giving a glimpse of the man behind the global fame.

McLean, who spent six intense weeks filming alongside Liam, paid tribute to his late friend, recalling long days on set sharing stories about music, life, and sobriety. “Liam lit up the room any time we were on set. He was a light and we are dedicating the show to him,” said the 46-year-old singer. “I’m glad people get to see this side of him. To remember him this way. Because this is really truly who he is. He’s now in a safer place.”

Liam’s death last October devastated fans across the world. Reports confirmed the singer died after falling from a hotel balcony in Buenos Aires while on holiday with friends. His body was later flown back to the UK, and the family issued a heartfelt statement thanking fans for their support.

In the months since, tributes have poured in from One Direction bandmates and fellow artists. Former partner Cheryl, with whom Liam shared son Bear, described the loss as “earth-shattering.” Kate Cassidy, his girlfriend at the time, issued a moving tribute, and fans held vigils globally.The Building The Band series will now act as a tribute to Liam’s life, his talent, and his generosity of spirit. Producers hope it will give fans closure while honouring a beloved star whose career was cut tragically short. The show is expected to drop on Netflix later this year, and will retain all of Liam’s original scenes, unfiltered and true to who he was.