Liam Payne remembered as ‘sensitive’ and ‘wonderful’ on second death anniversary

The Wanted singer Siva Kaneswaran has paid tribute to Liam Payne on the second anniversary of the One Direction star’s death, remembering him as a “wonderful”, sensitive and sincere person despite the rivalry between their bands.

Speaking exclusively to the Daily Mirror on October 16, 2026, Kaneswaran reflected on losing Payne, who died in Buenos Aires, Argentina, in October 2024, aged 31.

His death came two years after The Wanted singer Tom Parker died aged 33 following a battle with an inoperable brain tumour.

“Losing Liam felt so recent after losing Tom,” Kaneswaran said, recalling how Payne had supported Parker and attended his funeral before performing at the Inside My Head charity concert at the Royal Albert Hall.

“When Tom passed, Liam messaged online initially and paid his respects, then he came to Tom’s funeral. He was such a wonderful person, so honest and sincere.”

Kaneswaran added, “You could tell he was a really sensitive young man. There are no words to describe that feeling of losing someone like Liam. I can only imagine what it was like for the fans. I still send my love to his friends and family and all the fans. His death was a big, big loss.”

The tribute highlights the relationship that developed between the musicians despite the highly publicised rivalry between One Direction and The Wanted during their rise to fame.

Kaneswaran, who now performs with Max George as The Wanted 2.0, said the deaths of Payne and Parker had changed his outlook on life.

“Death teaches you one thing – it teaches you how to live. Go for it and follow what you truly want,” he said.

He added that performing and making music continued to bring him happiness, while emphasising the importance of living in the moment and cherishing relationships.

As fans remember Payne two years after his death, Kaneswaran’s words offer a personal reflection on friendship, loss and the lasting impact of a fellow musician.