Former One Direction star Liam Payne was laid to rest on November 20, 2024, in a private ceremony in Amersham, England, but much of the attention turned to his girlfriend.
Payne’s family and close friends mourned the beloved singer, whose untimely death on October 16 at a hotel in Argentina left a profound impact worldwide.
Karen and Geoff Payne, watch as their son Liam Payne’s coffin is carried into the funeral in Amersham, UK on November 20, 2024 | Source: Getty Images
Among the attendees was Payne’s girlfriend, Kate Cassidy, dressed in an all-black outfit featuring a fur-trimmed coat, dark sunglasses, and styled blonde waves.
Kate Cassidy attends Liam Payne’s funeral in Amersham, England, on November 20, 2024 | Source: Getty Images
Liam Payne’s One Direction bandmates among mourners at singer’s funeral
Cassidy’s other companion was Damian Hurley, the son of actress Elizabeth Hurley and late producer Steve Bing.
Kate Cassidy and Damian Hurley attend Liam Payne’s funeral in Amersham on November 20, 2024 | Source: Getty Images
Photos of the service sparked mixed reactions online, with one commenting, “She could have worn something more ‘decent’?”
Another chimed in, “Why do they all wear sunglasses, is it some sort of status symbol,” while someone else pointed out, “Was the blow out necessary? Its a funeral not a party [sic].”
Kate Cassidy attends Liam Payne’s funeral on November 20, 2024 | Source: Getty Images
Some also suggested that Cassidy attending alone might have shown more respect.
However, others criticized the negative comments aimed at Cassidy, urging respect for Payne’s grieving family and emphasizing that such discussions were inappropriate during a time of mourning.
A netizen’s comment on Liam Payne’s funeral in Amersham, posted on November 20, 2024 | Source: Facebook.com/irishmirror
One fan expressed heartbreak over the tragic circumstances, highlighting the emotional weight of Payne’s funeral.
Meanwhile, another user remarked on Cassidy’s appearance, likening her to a supermodel.
A netizen’s comment on Kate Cassidy’s attendance at Liam Payne’s funeral in Amersham, posted on November 20, 2024 | Source: Instagram.com/usweekly
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Despite the mixed reactions, some defended Cassidy with one supporter writing, “I’m so glad she came x [sic].”
Another acknowledged Cassidy’s actions, adding, “of course she deserves her place at the funeral also. Liam would have wanted that. Rest in Peace Liam 🙏💔 [sic].”
Liam Payne attends the world premiere of “I Am Bolt” in London on November 28, 2016 | Source: Getty Images
While Cassidy’s appearance drew mixed reactions, the ceremony brought together those closest to Payne to honor his life and legacy.
His former bandmates—Harry Styles, Niall Horan, Zayn Malik, and Louis Tomlinson—joined Cassidy at the service, standing in solidarity as they paid their respects.
Harry Styles and Niall Horan attend Liam Payne’s funeral service at St. Mary’s Church in Amersham on November 20, 2024 | Source: Getty Images
On October 22, before attending the service, Cassidy shared an emotional tribute to her late boyfriend on Instagram, featuring several photos of their time together, including a trip to Disneyland, an outdoor hike, winter moments, and a handwritten note.
Liam Payne and Kate Cassidy at The 2022 Fashion Awards in London on December 5, 2022 | Source: Getty Images
“I don’t even know where to begin. My heart is shattered in ways I can’t put into words,” she began, reflecting on Payne’s impact on the world and the love they shared.
Kate Cassidy and Liam Payne enjoy outdoor hiking, posted on October 22, 2024 | Source: Instagram.com/kateecass
She described him as her “best friend” and “the love of [her] life,” praising his kindness, energy, and ability to light up every room.
Cassidy also opened up about her disbelief over his passing, sharing her struggle to adjust to life without him while cherishing the joyful, childlike moments they experienced together.
Kate Cassidy and Liam Payne at Disneyland, posted on October 22, 2024| Source: Instagram.com/kateecass
Reflecting on their relationship, Cassidy revealed that she and Payne had recently envisioned their future, including plans for marriage.
She shared a heartfelt note he wrote just weeks before his passing, expressing his wish to be “engaged & together forever 444.”
Liam Payne’s handwritten note to Kate Cassidy, posted on October 22, 2024 | Source: Instagram.com/kateecass
She referred to Payne as her “guardian angel” and ended her statement with, “I will love you for the rest of my life and beyond, carrying our dreams and memories with me everywhere I go.”