Tributes have been pouring in after the death of One Direction star Liam Payne.
The 31-year-old singer died outside a hotel in Argentina’s capital, after falling from the third floor, police said.
He rose to fame after appearing on X Factor in 2010, where the world-famous boy band was formed.
TV presenter Dermot O’Leary, who presented the show at the time, called it “the worst news”.
Alongside a photo of O’Leary and Payne standing on stage together, he wrote on Instagram: “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 just loved to sing.
“He was always a joy, had time for everyone, polite, grateful, and was always humble.”
Read more: What we know so far
Singer Charlie Puth, who collaborated with Payne on the track Bedroom Floor, posted on Instagram: “I am in shock right now.
“Liam was always so kind to me. He was one of the first major artists I got to work with. I cannot believe he is gone.”
Jack Johnson, one half of American rap duo Jack & Jack, called out social media users for their treatment of the former One Direction star.
“If this Liam Payne news is true that s**t is honestly so gut-wrenching… was such a nice guy the few times me and G ran into him, f*** the Internet for being so ruthless over the past few months,” he wrote on X.
Latest updates: Former One Direction star found dead at hotel
Anne Twist, the mother of former bandmate Harry Styles, posted a broken heart emoji on Instagram with the caption: “Just a boy…” while socialite Paris Hilton called the singer’s death “so upsetting” in a post on X.
“Sending love and condolences to his family and loved ones,” she wrote.
“RIP my friend.”
Former X Factor contestant Rylan said Payne’s death was “so tragic”, while X Factor singing duo Jedward sent their love to his six-year-old son.
“Sending strength to Cheryl and his son Bear, and all the One Direction family,” they wrote on X.
A statement on MTV’s official social media accounts said: “We’re deeply saddened to learn of Liam Payne’s tragic passing today. During this difficult time, our hearts remain with his family, loved ones, and fans.”
DJ and music producer Zedd called the news of Liam Payne’s death “absolutely heartbreaking”.