Louis says a One Direction reunion feels “infinitely more complicated” after Payne’s tragic death

Louis Tomlinson has admitted he would be “really surprised” if One Direction ever reunited, saying he cannot imagine stepping on stage again without his late bandmate, Liam Payne.

The singer, who fronts the latest issue of Rolling Stone UK, opened up about the lasting impact of Payne’s death and why a reunion of the world’s biggest boy band feels impossible for now.

As he prepares to release his third solo album, How Did I Get Here?, on 23 January next year, Tomlinson reflected on the idea of getting the group back together — a dream that fans have clung to ever since One Direction went on hiatus in 2016.

Tomlinson recalled attending the Oasis reunion show in Cardiff this summer, a moment that stirred nostalgic feelings but also brought clarity. “That was one of the first feelings I got when I was there,” he told Rolling Stone UK. “But I think it’s more that you’re romanticising the idea than actually thinking about the reality of it.”

The reality, for him, is one overshadowed by loss. Since Liam Payne’s untimely death last year, the thought of returning as a four-piece feels hollow. “Right now, I can’t foresee a time where I would actually feel comfortable doing that,” Tomlinson confessed. “Before Liam passed, I kind of always had it in the back of my mind — like, I’m sure we’ll do something, even if it’s just one big show. But now I’d be really surprised.”

He added that any reunion without Payne would feel incomplete, almost like “something else entirely.” Instead, he takes comfort in knowing their final moments together on stage remain untouched. “I also kind of love that the last time we were on stage together, Liam was there. That’s just so perfect.”

For fans still clinging to hope, there is a glimmer of something special ahead. Tomlinson revealed he will reunite with former bandmate Zayn Malik for a new Netflix documentary set to premiere next year. The three-part series, directed by Nicola Marsh — known for Song Exploder and Leo Baker’s Stay on Board — promises an intimate look at the pair’s journey across the United States.

According to a press release, the yet-untitled show follows Tomlinson and Malik on a “spontaneous adventure,” offering rare insight into their personal lives while rekindling a friendship that once seemed fractured. The series will explore “life, love, loss, and fatherhood,” marking the first time in years that two One Direction members have collaborated publicly.

Tomlinson also spoke about his forthcoming album, describing it as a reflection of his personal and artistic growth. “It’s a reflection of how confident I am,” he said, explaining that How Did I Get Here? moves from the “mildly dark sonic place” of his 2022 record Faith in the Future to something brighter and more hopeful.

The Rolling Stone UK interview captures a musician at peace with his past but realistic about his future. While millions of fans still dream of hearing “What Makes You Beautiful” performed by the original lineup, Tomlinson’s words suggest closure rather than anticipation.

“I’ve made peace with where things are,” he said. “What we achieved was extraordinary, and maybe it’s best that it stays as it was — something complete.”

Issue 24 of Rolling Stone UK, featuring Tomlinson’s full interview, hits shelves on 9 October, with the complete cover story set to go live online next week.

For now, fans may never see a One Direction reunion — but they can expect a more personal and revealing chapter from one of its most grounded voices.