Liam Payne’s girlfriend expressed regret over leaving Argentina, stating she would have stayed if she knew about the singer’s untimely death.
In an exclusive interview with the Sun, US influencer Kate Cassidy, who was in a relationship with the One Direction star since 2022, described Payne’s death as a tragic accident.
She mentioned, “No, I never did think [he might die young]… I just never thought this would have happened,” in her first interview following his passing.
Payne tragically passed away in October last year after falling from the balcony of his hotel room in Buenos Aires, Argentina at the age of 31.
A week after his death, Cassidy shared a heartfelt tribute online, referring to him as “my best friend, the love of my life”.
She also revealed a note written by Payne before his death, suggesting they would marry within a year.
Speaking to the Sun, the 25-year-old expressed her optimistic view on love and regretted leaving Argentina without knowing what would transpire.
She admitted that she never anticipated the unfortunate outcome of traveling separately from him.
Cassidy explained that when she left, Payne was in a positive frame of mind.
Following Payne’s sudden death, discussions arose regarding the music industry’s responsibility towards young stars.
Toxicology tests revealed alcohol, cocaine, and an antidepressant in Payne’s body after his passing, as stated by the prosecutor’s office in Argentina.
His cause of death was confirmed as “polytrauma” during a UK inquest in Buckinghamshire.
According to the Sun, Cassidy has relocated from their Florida home back to New Jersey.
She described their connection as soulmates from the moment they met and expressed the ongoing struggle of accepting his absence.
Cassidy stated, “I’m trying to be the best I can be, but I feel like my life has changed so much.” She recalled the moment she learned of Payne’s death and the impact it had on her.
She mentioned calling Payne’s phone to hear his voicemail and the difficulty of listening to his music without him being there.