Liam Payne's 'special bond' with Simon Cowell and 'transformed life' before tragic death

Liam Payne tragically died at the age of 31 and his close friend Tony Cowell has spoken about their friendship and Liam's bond with Simon Cowell, as well as the last time he saw the star

Simon Cowell's brother has reflected on their 15-year friendship with Liam Payne, sharing intimate details from the day he first encountered the "sweet" teenager, the rollercoaster ride of One Direction's fame, and the subsequent events.

He also reminisces about their last meeting and how Liam continued to foster a close relationship with his mentor Simon, seeking guidance and arranging playdates for their young sons. The last time Tony saw him, he enthusiastically greeted him and his wife Emma with his signature big, warm hugs.

Detailing their last meet up Tony said: "It had been a little while since we'd last seen him, but it was as if it was just 10 minutes ago. He was always exactly the same, no matter how long it had been. I knew Liam for 15 years and he hadn't changed at all from the sweet 16-year-old we all first met at The X Factor. He was just an angel."

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Speaking about the early days of fame for Liam Tony explained how "it was a dream come true for him" and that "off stage, there was a quiet nervousness about him, but when he was on stage, it was as if he was home."

Tony added: "He was consistently kind and gentle, and as I observed him mature over the years, he remained the same grounded lad he was at 16. Having known him for half his life, I can attest that his unchanged demeanour is a testament to his upbringing, manners, and humility.", reports OK! Magazine.

Speaking about Liam's relationship with Simon, Tony revealed: "Simon and Cheryl were always very close, so Liam's relationship with Cheryl and the birth of Bear brought them even closer. Becoming a father transformed his life. It made him grow up. It grounded him and filled him with an unexpected love. Whenever he spoke about Bear, his eyes would light up."

He added that Liam would often visit Simon and take Bear along with him. Tony said: "He felt at ease with Eric and Simon and continued to seek Simon's advice and guidance. Throughout the years, as he faced various challenges and tried to find his footing, Simon was always there to lend a hand. Their mutual respect remained intact."

Speaking about Liam's tragic death, Tony described his sudden absence as "feel surreal, like a terrible nightmare, leaving the family utterly heartbroken." Paying tribute to Liam, Tony said: "He was ambitious and took everything seriously. Back then, no one could have predicted that they would become global superstars. They conquered America. They achieved things that no boy band had done since the Beatles.

He added: "His life ending so abruptly and at such a young age is heartbreaking. My thoughts are with his family. They were always so close and proud of him. I will always remember him as a young boy starting out, seeking advice, being so warm and friendly to Simon and my mum. I will cherish the memories of his sweet smile and his warm hugs.

"Now, there will be a flurry of speculation and analysis of aspects of his life that he may have wished to keep private. However, I hope the focus remains on his remarkable musical legacy and the happiness he brought to millions, which is an enduring part of music history.

"Despite the global outpouring of sorrow, I'll remember him as a handsome young man grappling with his inner demons. And there's a little seven year old who no longer has his father. Today, I believe that's all we can contemplate."