Simon Cowell has shared his profound grief over the sudden death of Liam Payne, describing the loss as leaving him “heartbroken” and “empty.” Reflecting on their journey together, Cowell remembered Payne as the “sweet, kind boy” he first met when Payne auditioned for *The X Factor* at just 14 years old. Although Payne didn’t make it through initially, his return at 16 marked the start of a remarkable career. His unforgettable performance of “Cry Me A River” with his Bublé-like vocals captivated the judges and helped launch One Direction into global stardom.

Cowell, who was instrumental in forming the band on *The X Factor* in 2010, expressed deep admiration for Payne’s dedication, humility, and love for music. Payne’s untimely passing at 31 has left a void for Cowell and countless fans. To honor his memory, Payne’s full audition, along with previously unseen footage, has been released for the first time, allowing fans to relive the magic of his early days.