Buenos Aires, Argentina — The tragic death of Liam Payne has left a significant void in the music world, as his estate is now under the management of his ex-girlfriend and mother of his only child, Cheryl Cole. Court documents indicate that Cole, alongside attorney Richard Mark Bray, has been appointed as the official administrator of Payne’s estate, which has a gross value of approximately $38 million.
Payne, a former member of the globally renowned band One Direction, died in October 2024 after a fatal fall from a hotel balcony. He was just 31 years old. His untimely death came while he was attending an event in Argentina, where he fell from the third floor of the hotel.
The estate’s administration has sparked public interest, particularly as Payne left no will. Typically, in the UK, when someone dies intestate, their spouse or children are entitled to the estate. Since Payne shares an eight-year-old son named Bear with Cole, she has stepped into this role to oversee the financial matters. However, current legal constraints mean they have limited authority to distribute assets immediately.
In the aftermath of Payne’s death, Cole publicly expressed her sorrow on social media, urging the public to remember Payne not just as a chart-topping singer but as a father and friend. She underscored the impact of his loss on their young son, who now faces life without his father. Cole’s heartfelt message resonated widely, as she navigates this profound personal tragedy.
Medical reports following Payne’s death confirmed that he suffered severe injuries, including a cranial fracture. A toxicology analysis revealed the presence of drugs, including crack cocaine and “pink cocaine,” in his system. This troubling discovery has drawn attention to the circumstances leading to his fall, with accounts of erratic behavior reported just prior to the incident.
Reports indicate that Payne’s girlfriend, Kate Cassidy, who had been traveling with him, returned to Florida just days before the tragedy. Cassidy has since opened up about her grief and the profound sense of loss she feels, sharing insights into their final moments together.
Several individuals initially faced manslaughter charges linked to Payne’s death, including a close friend and two hotel employees. However, those charges were eventually dropped, raising questions about the events surrounding his final hours.
Payne’s funeral took place a month after his passing, with close friends and former bandmates in attendance, including Harry Styles and Niall Horan. The gathering served not only as a farewell but also as a reminder of the lasting impact Payne had on his friends, fans, and family.
As the estate is now in the hands of Cole and Bray, the focus on Payne’s legacy continues, encompassing not only his remarkable career but also the profound personal losses that have affected those who loved him.