The former Pussycat Dolls singer honored Payne, who tragically passed away last week after falling from a hotel in Buenos Aires, Argentina, at the age of 31.
Payne rose to fame as a member of One Direction, which was formed on the UK reality show “The X Factor,” where Scherzinger served as a judge.
On social media, she expressed her sorrow on Friday morning, stating, “Dear Liam, I will always cherish the time we spent together, from the moment One Direction was formed fifteen years ago to just a few weeks ago.”
“It was a blessing to collaborate with you recently,” she continued. “We shared a deep love and passion for music, and I will forever remember our meaningful and joyful conversations.”
Scherzinger mentioned how difficult it is to accept that he is gone but expressed gratitude for knowing his kind heart and gentle spirit.
“You brought so much joy, light, and laughter to those who truly knew you,” she concluded. “I will miss you, my friend, and carry you in my heart. My thoughts and prayers are with your family.”
Currently, Scherzinger is performing in “Sunset Blvd.” on Broadway, featuring the compositions of Andrew Lloyd Webber.
Webber shared insights with Billboard about the moment Scherzinger learned of Payne’s death, noting, “On the Wednesday when he died, she was still texting him that day. That evening, after the reviewers came to ‘Sunset,’ she received the news about his passing. The fact that she performed at all is extraordinary. She is an amazing woman and one of the finest performers I’ve ever worked with.”
