Netflix revealed that its new show, “Building the Band”, will debut in the Summer of 2025 and will still feature Liam Payne, even after his passing. Payne will appear on the reality music competition series as a guest judge.
His appearance was filmed before his death.
People had previously reported that it was unclear what the fate of the show would be following Payne’s death, but it’s clear they decided to move forward.
According to an article published May 14 on Netflix’s Tudum platform, “Building the Band” focuses on “forming the next great music group without any of the members ever seeing each other.”
“The singers are in complete control as they seek to form their very own bands in individual ‘booths’ without ever seeing each other,” they write. “All they have to go on is musical compatibility, connection, chemistry, and merit. What will happen when the bands finally meet, and looks, choreography, and style come into play?”
Along with Payne, Nicole Scherzinger and Kelly Rowland will also serve as judges, while The Backstreet Boys’ AJ McLean will host the series.
Payne tragically died on October 16, 2024, after falling from the third-floor balcony of his hotel room in Buenos Aires. He was 31 years old.
AJ McLean Spoke About Liam Payne’s Appearance on ‘Building the Band’ During a March Interview
When speaking with Entertainment Weekly at the iHeart Radio Awards in March, McLean opened up about what will be Payne’s final TV series.
“I’m glad the world gets to see that this was one of the final things that Liam did before his tragic passing, and I’m hoping that the world embraces seeing him the way he really is and really was: just a light of joy and laughter and comedy and fun and sincerity,” McLean explained. “It was an honor getting to share a stage with him, to get to know him the way I did, and he will be missed, but I know he is in a much better place, and he’s much happier and safer where he is now, and he’s no longer in pain.”
AJ McLean and Nicole Scherzinger Posted Touching Tributes After Liam Payne’s Passing
Following his death, Payne’s “Building the Band” co-stars posted tributes on social media.
“Words cannot begin to express the pain I have for this man and the great loss we have endured! We became very close almost immediately and shared so many stories , laughs, and life experiences. Gone too soon my friend,” McLean wrote on Instagram. “You were such a light an incredible person to be in the presence of daily while we worked together! I cannot believe you are gone. Keep shining and keep singing for us all to hear. My deepest condolences to your family , loved ones, and your bandmates. Love you bro! 😢”
Scherzinger also penned a sweet message to the singer.
“Dear Liam, I will forever cherish and treasure the time we shared together, from fifteen years ago when One Direction was born, right up until just a few weeks ago,” Scherzinger wrote on Instagram. “It was such a blessing to get to work with you recently. We shared the same love and passion for music and I will forever remember the meaningful and joyful conversations we had.”
“It’s been so hard to process that you’re no longer here, but I am grateful to have known your kind heart, sweet soul and character,” she continued. “You brought so much joy, light, and laughter to the lives of those that truly knew you. I will “miss you” my friend and carry you in my heart. My thoughts and prayers are with your family. 🙏🏽♥️”
Comments
Liam Payne Set To Appear On New Netflix Series