Liam Payne's 'sobriety' confession to Paddy McGuinness before his tragic death

Liam Payne had opened up about his struggles with 'sobriety' in a series of text messages to Paddy McGuinness, who has shared the messages after the singer's tragic death

Former One Direction star Liam Payne achieved sobriety last year after attending a rehab clinic for 100 days. Unfortunately, he appeared to have returned to a destructive relationship with alcohol and drugs prior to his heartbreaking death on Wednesday, October 16.

Now Paddy McGuinness has stepped forward to share text messages he exchanged with the former X Factor star about his experiences with sobriety.

Liam had candidly discussed the difficulties of stardom and trust with Paddy McGuinness through text messages, one of which he shared: "I don't have many mates I can trust who know how I feel and since being sober I'm wanting to branch out more instead of hiding away."

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These revelations came after Liam had previously expressed feelings of loneliness during his global tours, often isolated in hotels and resorting to drinking alone.

Remembered fondly by Paddy McGuinness in an Instagram story tribute today, the comedian reflected on their honest exchanges saying "I really enjoyed the small amount of time I got to hang out with Liam. His messages were always open and honest," and added "I could never comprehend that level of fame and attention? Let alone the effect it has on someone so young? Rest in peace young un."

Liam passed away, aged just 31, following a tragic fall from a third-floor balcony at his hotel in Buenos Aires. He had been in the Argentinian capital to celebrate One Direction bandmate Niall Horan's solo show on October 2, and had stayed on with his girlfriend afterwards. However, she'd returned to Florida earlier this week, explaining later that she didn't like to spend too much time in one place, reports the Express.

Liam was reportedly due to check out of the hotel, in the Palermo district, on the day of his death. It is believed that he received an unwelcome email, which caused him signs of distress in the lobby. Liam then allegedly smashed his laptop, as well as the television in his room. Police and emergency services surrounded the hotel as his death was announced, with it being stated that his injuries were too severe for resuscitation attempts.

This evening Cherly, who co-parented seven-year-old Bear with Liam broke her silence. Posting on Instagram, Cheryl said: "As I try to navigate this earth shattering event, and work through my own grief at this indescribably painful time, I'd like to kindly remind everyone that we have lost a human being."

Along with her statement Cheryl shared a black and white image of Payne with their son Bear and a broken heart emoji. She slammed insensitive media coverage in the aftermath of Liam's death.

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She continued: "Liam was not only a pop star and celebrity, he was a son, a brother, an uncle, a dear friend and a father to our seven-year-old son. A son that now has to face the reality of never seeing his father again.

"What is troubling my spirit the most is that one day Bear will have access to the abhorrent reports and media exploitation we have seen in the past two days. It is breaking my heart further that I cannot protect him from that in his future.

"I am begging you to consider what use some of these reports are serving, other than to cause further harm to everyone left behind picking up the pieces. Before you leave comments or make videos, ask yourself if you would like your own family to read them. Please give Liam the little dignity he has left in the wake of his death to rest in peace at last. Thank you, Cheryl."

The post came on Friday evening shortly after Simon Cowell paid tribute to the singer. The X Factor judge, who put the One Direction together in 2010 and mentored them, described Liam as "kind, sweet [and] thoughtful" in an emotional Instagram post.

Cheryl has described how their seven-year-old son will face never seeing his dad again. The Girls Aloud singer had been in a relationship with Liam from 2016 to 2018.

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