Cheryl, a member of Girls Aloud, has expressed her devastation over the death of Liam Payne, describing it as "earth shattering." She also voiced her concerns about protecting their seven-year-old son, Bear, from the harsh reality of losing his father.

Payne tragically passed away after falling from a third-floor balcony at the Casa Sur Hotel in Buenos Aires on October 16. Cheryl, who was in a high-profile relationship with Payne from 2016 to 2018, shared her thoughts in an Instagram statement, noting that Bear must now confront the reality of never seeing his father again.

In her post, accompanied by a black-and-white photo of Payne with Bear, Cheryl said, “As I try to navigate this earth-shattering event and cope with my own grief during this indescribably painful time, I want to remind everyone that we have lost a human being. Liam was not just a pop star; he was a son, a brother, an uncle, a dear friend, and a father to our son. Bear now has to face the reality of never seeing his dad again.”

Cheryl expressed her distress over the media coverage following Payne’s death, worrying that Bear would eventually encounter the hurtful reports and exploitation that have surfaced in the days since. “It breaks my heart that I cannot protect him from that in the future. I urge you to consider what purpose these reports serve, other than to cause further harm to those left behind. Before commenting or posting, ask yourself if you would want your own child or family to read such things.”

In conclusion, the 41-year-old pleaded for people to allow Payne "the little dignity he has left" and to let him rest in peace.

Cheryl's statement follows similar sentiments expressed by Payne’s girlfriend, Kate Cassidy, who described her disbelief over recent events. Cassidy, who had been in a relationship with Payne for about two years, stated, “Thank you for all the kind words and love sent my way. I have been at a complete loss. Nothing about the past few days has felt real.”

She asked for privacy as she navigates her grief, adding, “Liam, my angel, you are everything. I want you to know I loved you unconditionally and completely.” Cassidy promised to continue loving Payne “for the rest of my life,” concluding with, “I love you, Liam.”