Louis Tomlinson avoids mentioning Zayn Malik in interview amid reports of strained relations

Tomlinson praised former One Direction bandmates in a new interview but did not reference Malik

Louis Tomlinson has fuelled speculation about strained relations with Zayn Malik after largely avoiding mention of his former One Direction bandmate in a recent interview.

The comments come amid reports that a planned Netflix travel series involving the pair was shelved following a disagreement.

Insiders have claimed the project collapsed after a heated row, with allegations of a “physical altercation” last month. Neither Tomlinson nor Malik has publicly addressed those claims. However, Tomlinson’s latest interview has drawn attention for what he did not say, rather than what he did.

Speaking to Billboard while promoting his upcoming album, How Did I Get Here?, which is set for release later this month, Tomlinson reflected on his former bandmates’ solo successes. When asked about the reported show, he said only: “It was his idea, actually. I’ll give him credit for that brilliance.”

Tomlinson went on to praise Harry Styles at length, saying: “I always knew Harry was going to go on and do what he’s done. I’m sure it’s superseded his own expectations in the way he’s taken over the world but we all knew that deep down. He’s got everything that it takes to be a great, great artist.”

He was similarly complimentary about Niall Horan, adding: “He’s Irish, he’s lovely. Everyone loves him. He also tours on an immense level. He’s had some great albums.” Malik, who left One Direction in 2015, was otherwise absent from the discussion.

Tomlinson also spoke about how relationships within the group have evolved following the death of Liam Payne in Argentina in 2024. “We are definitely closer than we were,” he said. “It changes from person to person. Like Niall, we could not exchange a text in a whole year and then go for a beer and literally chat non-stop.”

While Tomlinson did not directly address rumours of a fallout, his selective remarks have reignited debate among fans about the current state of his relationship with Malik.