Fri Jul 18 03:30:00 UTC 2025: **News Article:**
**Liam Payne’s Final Act: Netflix’s ‘Building the Band’ Showcases Last Appearance Before Tragic Death**
Former One Direction star Liam Payne’s final television appearance is being showcased on Netflix’s “Building the Band,” a singing competition series where he served as a guest judge. The episodes, filmed last fall, feature Payne offering constructive criticism and lighthearted commentary to aspiring musicians, just weeks before his untimely death at the age of 31.
Payne, known for his time with the global phenomenon One Direction, provides guidance to the newly formed groups, drawing on his own experiences in the music industry. In one memorable moment, he jokingly references One Direction’s dance skills while critiquing the stage presence of the group Midnight ‘Til Morning. Alongside fellow judges Kelly Rowland and Nicole Scherzinger, Payne emphasizes the importance of onstage chemistry and connecting with the audience.
The series challenged young singers to form groups with strangers. During episodes 5 through 7, the six acts decided on their names: 3Quency, Soulidified, SZN4, Siren Society, Sweet Seduction and Midnight ‘Til Morning.
The first episode of “Building the Band” is dedicated to Payne, with series host AJ McLean delivering a heartfelt message acknowledging Payne’s passion for music and dedication to helping others.
Payne died on October 16 after falling from a third-floor balcony at a Buenos Aires hotel. In the aftermath of Payne’s death, five people were initially charged, including hotel employees and Payne’s friend Roger Nores. Charges were later dropped against all but two hotel employees, who allegedly supplied Payne with drugs leading up to his death.
“Building the Band,” a 10-episode competition, is currently streaming on Netflix.
First Piper 