Universal Music Group (UMG) is facing major backlash after news surfaced that the label dropped Liam Payne just days before his tragic death.
The former One Direction member passed away on October 16, 2024, after falling from the balcony of his hotel room at the CasaSur Palermo Hotel in Buenos Aires. Payne’s autopsy revealed that he died from "multiple traumas and hemorrhage" resulting from a fall of nearly 45 feet.
UMG shared a tribute on social media, stating, "We are devastated by the tragic passing of Liam Payne. His legacy will live on through his music and the countless fans he inspired and who adored him."
However, the post was met with immediate outrage from fans who condemned the label for dropping Payne shortly before his death.
"You dropped him two days ago and now you’re posting this. You didn’t care," one fan tweeted in response to UMG’s statement. Another added, "Shouldn’t have dropped him few days before the tragedy then."
Shouldn’t have dropped him few days before the tragedy then.
— Pinkee (@ordinary_Dave_K) October 18, 2024
Fans expressed frustration and anger, with many suggesting that UMG’s decision may have worsened Payne’s mental state in the days leading up to his death.
"You’re responsible for his death. I bet dropping him from your label was part of the reason that he was so upset before what occurred last night," one fan wrote. Another criticized the music giant, saying, "Perhaps you should employ health and wellbeing staff to support the people you chew up and spit out."
You’re responsible for his death. I bet dropping him from your label was part of the reason that he was so upset before what occurred last night. I hope Liam’s family and his 4 brothers sue the ever living SHIT out of you.
— Carly 🩷 (@CarlyScheider) October 18, 2024
According to reports, UMG had put Payne’s second album on hold before ultimately cutting ties with him.
A source told the *Daily Mail*, "Out of all the One Direction boys, Liam was on the wrong path musically. There was very little left for him…It must have absolutely devastated him."
As fans mourned the loss of the beloved singer, they also voiced their concerns about the treatment of artists in the music industry.
"You’re devastated? Devastated for all the money he didn’t make you. Hypocrites!" one fan tweeted.
Of course you're devastated... Devastated for all the money he didn't make you, as he wasn't producing night and day, so you dropped him just a few weeks ago.
— virna&menagerie (@virnak55) October 18, 2024
Hypocrits!
Liam Payne’s final days reportedly involved emotional outbursts and erratic behavior, including an incident in the hotel lobby where he smashed his laptop.
Hotel staff called 911 out of concern for his well-being, and after his tragic death, authorities discovered his hotel room in disarray, with medicines and drugs scattered around.
Clonazepam, a drug used for seizures and panic disorders, was among the medications found at the scene.
Fans have continued to criticize Universal Music Group for their handling of Payne’s career and mental health.
As one fan tweeted, "But yet you refuse to release his last works? Yeah sounds like you’re all torn up."
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