Unfolding Events
Liam Payne did not leave multiple businesses the day he died, despite some reports saying otherwise.
In the UK, when a company director dies, it must be reported to Companies House within two weeks. Although Payne’s death occurred on October 16 in Buenos Aires, Companies House says it got the electronic notification of his “termination” on October 24. This suggests he didn’t resign before his death.
The rules at Companies House say they need to know about changes to directors’ details, like resignations or deaths, within 14 days. “By law, a company must tell us about any changes to directors’ details within 14 days,” their site clarifies. “This includes when a person is no longer a director because they’ve resigned, retired, or sadly passed away.”
On October 24, there was paperwork ending Payne’s role with Hampton Music Limited. It’s unclear who filed it. Hampton Music helped with performing arts activities and was linked to his song “Strip That Down.” He had been a director there since March 2015. The company was running at a loss of £15,300 (just under $19,900). Reports from last year valued it at £17,300 (about $22,500).
Fans find this situation puzzling.
Similarly, notices were filed for his departure from other companies due to his death, including Hampton Publishing Limited, Long Play Touring LLP, and Hampton Records Limited. He was a director at these places and a key member at Long Play Touring.
Hampton Publishing, since 2019, handled sound recording and music publishing. Its value was £729 (around $950) as per the latest records.
Long Play Touring, founded in 2017, managed his touring business. Valued at £135,000 (around $175,500) in 2022, it dropped to £17,000 (a bit over $22,000) by the time of his death. There were plans for a 2025 tour.
Reflective Moments
Hampton Records Limited, started in 2016, was worth £300,000 (around $390,000) last year but only £75,000 (about $97,500) when Payne left. It held the rights to his solo album LP1 and appeared on vinyl copies of his single “Teardrops” released this year.
Companies House also showed Payne’s posthumous removal from Second Way Property LTD, involved in real estate, where he was one of four directors. As of March 2023, the company’s net assets exceeded £1.04 million (over $1.35 million). This resignation notice was filed later on October 30.
Payne tragically died in Buenos Aires, falling from a hotel balcony two weeks ago. His death is under investigation as “questionable.” In a heartfelt statement, his family expressed, “We are heartbroken… Liam will forever live in our hearts, and we’ll remember him for his kind, funny, and brave soul. We are supporting each other the best we can as a family and ask for privacy and space at this awful time.”
