Liam Payne 'would still be alive if he didn't do X Factor audition,' says Rebecca Ferguson

Singer Rebecca Ferguson has claimed One Direction star Liam Payne 'would still be alive' if he hadn't auditioned for the X Factor back in 2010 following his tragic death at 31

X Factor star Rebecca Ferguson has claimed Liam Payne "would still be alive" if he hadn't auditioned for the show.

The singers both competed on the same series of the ITV singing show back in 2010. Liam, who tragically died after falling from a hotel in Buenos Aires yesterday, auditioned solo but later became part of group One Direction. Simon Cowell, along with help from Nicole Scherzinger, put Liam into a group with Niall Horan, Harry Styles, Louis Tomlinson, and Zayn Malik.

They went on to become one of the world's biggest boy bands following their success on the show. Rebecca came runner up on the series, as singer Matt Cardle was crowned winner. Following the shock news of Liam's tragic death, Rebecca decided to take to social media to share her thoughts.

She wrote: "It's always a hotel room! We both met at Euston station and shared the taxi together to X Factor. I can't help but think of that boy who was hopeful and looking forward to his bright future ahead. If he hadn't jumped on that train and jumped in that taxi I believe he would be alive today."

Rebecca added: "Rest in peace Liam, I hope you find peace on the other side and love to your mum and family x." The singer ended her statement wishing Liam finds "peace on the other side" and sent her love to the star's mum and family. Fans flocked to the comments section to express their condolences, with many saying they were "heartbroken" by the news.

Former X Factor star Katie Waissel, who also appeared on the 2010 series, has hit out at X Factor boss Simon Cowell following Liam's death. Shortly after his death was confirmed, Katie wrote: "My heart is completely torn to shreds right now, I am at an absolute loss for words. If Simon Cowell dare put a statement out on the heart wrenching, tragic loss of my dear and darling friend Liam, he would be a fool. We all know the truth… and I’ll be sure it all comes out."

Moments later, she then released another statement describing Liam as "my confidant and my rock", before explaining her thought process about the music industry as a whole. She said: "Liam was kind, with a pure heart, a sharp mind, and the wisdom of an old soul. His warmth and compassion left a lasting impact on everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. His tragic passing not only leaves an irreplaceable void in the hearts of those who loved him but also serves as a painful reminder of the systemic neglect that persists in the industry."

The One Direction star fell from the third floor of a hotel building in the Argentinian capital on Wednesday evening. Police, firefighters and ambulances were seen outside of a hotel building after Liam tragically fell. A body was found in an internal patio of the hotel. The police were called to the hotel by the hotel manager. It's believed that Liam fell from the third floor and suffered "very serious injuries incompatible with life."

Liam’s family have spoken publicly following the tragic news. In a statement issued by his spokeswoman they shared: “We are heartbroken. Liam will forever live in our hearts and we’ll remember him for his kind, funny and brave soul. We are supporting each other the best we can as a family and ask for privacy and space at this awful time.”

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