Zayn Malik has quit One Direction. Six words Directioners have been dreading since the singer announced he would be signing off from the band's On The Road Again world tour, sighting the beginning of the end. Fans have been understandably devastated by the news, but shining beacon of hope Liam Payne is here to assure us all we've got plenty more 1D heading our way.
Following their first performance as a four-piece in Jakarta last night where poor Harry Styles broke down on stage, the Paynster released a fitting statement to put the entire planet, which has literally broken down, at ease.
"In light of recent events I think this is important to say. For the past five years now I've been part of something so special I don't think any of us really understand, something that can mean the world to people and put a smile on the face of our fans even in the darkest times," he wrote.
"To a lot of people it's just a bunch of silly kids in a band but to the people involved it means so much more. This last week has been some of the worst times, possibly the worst it's something we are all deeply saddened by.
Liam Payne releases statment following Zayn Malik departure (WENN)
"It's sad to think for the time being we won't grace the stage as five bros or have the same fun on a tour bus or laughs in a hotel together that we have over the years but I'm super sure us and zayn will always remain the closest friends. I guess what I'm really trying to say is it's far from over," his statement continued.
"When we very 1st became successful we all agreed that one direction had become much bigger than each individual member that's why I feel like right now it's ok to be sad and upset but I do ask everyone who is a fan of us to please keep ur faith in us I'm sure there's a lot more to come all love," he finished, signing off, Liam.
Zayn has often spoken about how he struggles with fame more than the other members of the boy band , so it might not be a shock to some that he's decided to quit now.
Zayn's departure from One Direction has broken the world, literally (WENN)
Revealing why he's quit, he wrote: "My life with One Direction has been more than I could ever have imagined. But, after five years, I feel like it is now the right time for me to leave the band. I'd like to apologise to the fans if I've let anyone down, but I have to do what feels right in my heart. I am leaving because I want to be a normal 22-year-old who is able to relax and have some private time out of the spotlight. I know I have four friends for life in Louis, Liam, Harry and Niall. I know they will continue to be the best band in the world ."
The band will continue with the remainder of the Asian leg of their On The Road Again world tour, which arrives in the UK this June.
