Louis Tomlinson Reflects on Zayn Malik’s Departure from One Direction

Louis Tomlinson has candidly shared the emotional impact of Zayn Malik’s departure from One Direction, an event he described as deeply crushing. In March 2015, Malik announced his exit from the band after five years, shocking fans worldwide. Tomlinson’s reflections came during a recent interview on the podcast “The Diary Of A CEO,” hosted by Steven Bartlett.

In the nearly two-hour conversation, Tomlinson expressed his feelings of anger and betrayal upon learning that Malik would leave the group. “I was fuming,” he remarked, highlighting the importance of loyalty in their relationship. He wished Malik had spoken to him before making such a significant decision. Tomlinson noted that their close bond, exemplified by their shared dressing room during the last tour, made the news particularly painful. “I felt a little bit hard done by,” he added, indicating that he believed their friendship warranted a more personal conversation.

Reflecting on the situation a decade later, Tomlinson speculated that Malik may not have wanted to change his mind about leaving. “He hasn’t told me this… but I think if he’d told me, I would have tried to tell him to stay,” he stated. That conversation may soon take place, as both artists are set to appear in a three-part Netflix documentary series that follows their road trip across America, which could provide an opportunity for deeper discussions.

Tomlinson suggested that Malik may indeed miss the camaraderie they shared during the height of One Direction’s success. “There must definitely be times that he misses the comfort,” he said, acknowledging the complexities of their relationship. Despite their recent meetings, he admitted that they often avoid discussing Malik’s departure. “There’ll be a time for that, for sure,” Tomlinson asserted.

The emotional weight of Malik’s exit was compounded by the loss of fellow band member Liam Payne, who passed away on October 16, 2024. Tomlinson described Payne as “misunderstood” and reflected on the profound impact his death had on him and the remaining members of One Direction. He recalled receiving the news through a group text message from Niall Horan, which left him devastated. “There are just too many words and too many memories,” Tomlinson said about the tribute he shared in Payne’s memory.

During the podcast, Tomlinson recounted a “cold” meeting the remaining members held after Malik’s departure, which he described as lacking the camaraderie they once shared. “The room felt cold that day,” he said, illustrating the emotional void left by Malik’s choices.

When asked about the possibility of a One Direction reunion in the future, Tomlinson expressed uncertainty. “Never say never,” he began, but added, “I’m not sure it would be right to him.” He emphasized that Payne, who had been a strong advocate for a reunion, would have wanted to see the band come together again.

Tomlinson’s reflections on Malik’s departure and Payne’s tragic passing highlight the deep ties and challenges faced by the members of One Direction. As they navigate their complex history, the upcoming documentary may offer fans a glimpse into their evolving relationships and the legacies of their musical journey.