Liam Payne’s older sister Nicola Payne is reflecting on her final moments with her brother.
On Friday (Aug. 29), which would’ve marked Liam’s 32nd birthday, Nicola shared a heartfelt tribute on social media, remembering the last time she saw the former One Direction star. Liam passed away in October 2024 after falling from the balcony of his hotel room in Argentina.
“A year ago today, we were so full of hope and excitement for what the years ahead would bring you,” Nicola wrote on Instagram. “That night, celebrating your birthday with bowling and McDonald’s, we celebrated you, your show, your dreams, and spoke of all the plans you had for the future. We ended the evening with a hug, telling you how proud we were and how much we loved you.
She continued, “If I had known that would be the last time I’d see you, I would have said so much more. I wish I could step into a time machine and relive that night, hug you tighter, capture your smile and voice, ask more questions and write it all down so I’d never forget. I hope you’re happy, at peace and know just how deeply you are loved. I miss you every single day, and I don’t think there will ever be a day that I don’t.
Nicola ended her emotional message by sending birthday wishes to her brother in heaven.
“So today, on your birthday, I want to wish you the happiest heavenly birthday,” she wrote. “Whenever you are, I hope you’re celebrating and hopefully you’ve scored a few strikes too.”
Payne’s older sister wasn’t the only one remembering him on what would have been his 32nd birthday. The singer’s girlfriend, Kate Cassidy, also shared an emotional message in his honor.
“My dearest Liam, it breaks my heart being that I can’t hand you a physical birthday card today,” Cassidy wrote on Instagram. “That I can’t hear your laugh, or tell you all the things I wish I’d said a thousand more times. I’ve been struggling to find the right words, but I’ll start with the most obvious, happy birthday.”
She continued, “Today, you would have been 32. In your 31 years here on this earth you brought so much joy, happiness and hope to so many- especially to me. I hope you know how brightly you still shine, even from up there.”
The social media influencer concluded her tribute by promising to carry Liam’s memory with strength and love, despite the grief she continues to face since his passing.
“I promise you I will celebrate you extra today, honor your life, and cherish the beautiful times we’ve had,” she wrote. “August 29th will be a date that sits in my heart for the rest of my life. I love you so much.”
Payne died at the age of 31 on Oct. 16, 2024, after falling from a third-story hotel balcony in Buenos Aires. According to toxicology reports released after his death, the X Factor alum had multiple substances in his system and a dangerously high blood-alcohol level at the time of the incident.
