Zayn Malik Postpones U.S. Leg of His Tour Following ‘Heartbreaking Loss’ of Former Bandmate Liam Payne

Zayn Malik is pressing pause on his touring plans following the death of his One Direction bandmate, Liam Payne.

On Saturday, Oct. 19, Malik, 31, announced in a post on his Instagram Stories that the U.S. leg of his Stairway to the Sky tour was being put on hold after Payne’s death at age 31 on Oct. 16.

“Given the heartbreaking loss experienced this week, I’ve made the decision to postpone the US leg of the STAIRWAY TO THE SKY Tour,” Malik began of the shows, which were slated to start on Oct. 23.

“The dates are being rescheduled for January and I’ll post them as soon as it’s all set in the next few days. Your tickets will remain valid for the new dates,” he added.

Malik concluded: “Love you all and thank you for your understanding.”

Payne died earlier this week after he fell multiple stories at the CasaSur Palermo Hotel in Buenos Aires, Argentina.

Before his death, Payne was “trashing” his hotel room, according to a 911 call made by hotel staff. A preliminary autopsy report said that he died from “internal and external” hemorrhages.

Malik, along with other One Direction members Harry Styles, Louis Tomlinson and Niall Horan, posted a joint statement on Oct. 17 reacting to Payne’s death.

“We’re completely devastated by the news of Liam’s passing,” the statement began. “In time, and when everyone is able to, there will be more to say. But for now, we will take some time to grieve and process the loss of our brother, who we loved dearly.”

The group added, “The memories we shared with him will be treasured forever. For now, our thoughts are with his family, his friends, and the fans who loved him alongside us. We will miss him terribly. We love you Liam. Louis, Zayn, Niall and Harry.”

Malik also posted his own Instagram tribute to Payne on Oct. 17.

“I lost a brother when you left us and can’t explain to you what I’d give to just give you a hug one last time and say goodbye to you properly and tell you that I loved and respected you dearly,” he wrote, in part.

“Will cherish all the memories I have with you in my heart forever, there is no words that justify or explain how I feel right now other than beyond devastated. I hope that wherever you are right now you are good and are at peace and you know how loved you are,” Malik continued.