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Cheryl Cole is making a plea to the media and online communities in the aftermath of her ex-partner Liam Payne’s tragic death this week at age 31. In a heartfelt Instagram post on Friday, Cole expressed her desire to shield their 7-year-old son Bear from potentially disturbing reports surrounding Payne’s passing.
As the world continues mourning the loss of the beloved pop star, Cole acknowledges the immense grief being felt by those closest to Payne – especially their child. “Liam was not only a pop star and celebrity, he was a son, a brother, an uncle, a dear friend and a father to our 7 year old son,” Cole’s post begins. She goes on to note the devastating reality their son now faces in growing up without his father.
What’s troubling Cole most is the sensitive issue of Bear one day potentially accessing certain media coverage. In her words, the “abhorrent reports and media exploitation” seen so far are “breaking my heart further” as she seeks to protect her son’s innocence and mental well-being going forward.
Cole’s heartfelt plea comes amid increased online discourse around Payne’s untimely death. While tributes have poured in from those nearest and dearest, certain reporting elements have come under fire. Of particular controversy was a media outlet sharing graphic photos of Payne’s body at the scene – an action since walked back but not before widespread condemnation.
In a call for compassion, Cole asks readers and viewers to consider how their comments and videos may affect Payne’s grieving family and friends still coming to terms with unfathomable loss. She seeks the “little dignity” of allowing Payne to now “rest in some peace.”
