Celebrities pay tribute to Liam Payne, who has died at the age of 31

Celebrities and fans have shared tributes for Liam Payne, who has died at the age of 31, police confirm. The former One Direction member reportedly fell from a third floor balcony at a hotel in Buenos Aires, Argentina.

Fans have been gathering outside the hotel to mourn the singer, lighting candles and singing One Direction songs.

Payne’s former bandmates Harry Styles, Niall Horan, Louis Tomlinson and Zayn Malik have yet to speak out on the news. Payne’s former partner Cheryl Tweedy, with whom he shared a son, 7-year-old Bear, also has yet to speak out.

Late morning on 17th October, Payne’s family broke their silence, telling MailOnline from their family home in Wolverhampton: “We are utterly devastated by the news.”

A later statement ready: “We are heartbroken. Liam will forever live in our hearts and we’ll remember him for his kind, funny and brave soul. We are supporting each other the best we can as a family and ask for privacy and space at this awful time.”

Singer Mabel shared a statement on her Instagram stories, writing, “Liam, for so many years I knew I could call you for support and big brotherly advice but now you’re gone… My thoughts and prayers are with Liam’s family and friends during this time. You’ll be so missed.”

Dermot O’Leary, who was the host of The X Factor when Payne and his fellow One Direction members were first discovered, penned an emotional statement. “The worst news. I remember him as a 14 year old turning up to audition on The X Factor, and blowing us away singing Sinatra,” he wrote. “He just loved to sing. He was always a joy, had time for everyone, polite, grateful, and was always humble. Sending love and prayers to his family. Dx.”