© Kevin Mazur
Liam Payne found himself at the center of criticism from devoted One Direction fans after his surprise showing at ex-bandmate Niall Horan’s concert in Buenos Aires last Saturday.
Payne joined crowds of screaming fans to watch Horan’s stadium performance. According to eyewitnesses, the singer was seen dancing exuberantly and belting out songs from a private viewing box high above the audience.
While some defended Payne’s right to support his former colleague, others were left questioning his motives. In the days prior, Payne had announced his trip to Argentina on social media, stating he wished to “square up a couple things” and clear the air with Horan after a long period of estrangement.
This was seen by many as an unnecessary attempt to stay relevant in the headlines of devoted Directioners, the nickname for One Direction’s passionate fanbase. Criticism intensified as Payne’s appearance seemed an attention-seeking move rather than a genuine reconciliation.
Payne’s rowdy display at the showcase concert left even his most ardent followers divided. While wishing the singer well, many felt his actions only stirred drama better left in the past as ex- bandmates build independent careers ten years on.
