Netflix is reportedly contemplating reducing the presence of One Direction star Liam Payne in the upcoming talent show Building The Band due to concerns about potential backlash from viewers. Prior to his tragic passing, Mr. Payne had been filming the reality series, which follows aspiring singers as they strive to create the next big band without ever meeting each other, as per a report from Metro.
Mr. Payne had joined the show as a guest judge, alongside Nicole Scherzinger and Kelly Rowland, with AJ McLean serving as the host. Following Mr. Payne’s passing, the show’s future has been uncertain, but it is anticipated to premiere on the streaming service later this year.
“The sentiment among Netflix executives is to exercise caution, and if that means minimizing Liam’s appearances on the show, then that is the approach they are willing to take,” a TV insider mentioned in the report.
“They aim to strike a balance between showcasing his involvement in the show, engaging in his passion, and not overwhelming his loved ones with his presence.”
It is worth noting that the reality show was one of the final projects Mr. Payne worked on, in addition to the track Do No Wrong with artist Sam Pounds from North Carolina. Reports suggest that Mr. Payne enjoyed his time on the show and expressed interest in continuing to collaborate with the bands even after filming had concluded.
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Liam Payne’s Tragic Passing
Mr. Payne tragically passed away in October of last year after a fatal fall from a hotel balcony in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Toxicology reports from the National Criminal and Correctional Prosecutor’s Office indicated the presence of “alcohol, cocaine, and prescription antidepressants” in Mr. Payne’s system at the time of the incident.
Originally from Wolverhampton, England, Mr. Payne gained fame after his appearance on The X Factor in 2008, eventually joining One Direction in 2010.