Netflix has confirmed that Building the Band, the last project featuring Liam Payne, will premiere this summer. The late One Direction star filmed his role as a guest judge before his tragic death in October 2024. The show brings a fresh twist to music competitions by forming bands without contestants seeing each other first.
Payne joined judges Nicole Scherzinger and Kelly Rowland, with AJ McLean of the Backstreet Boys hosting. The series wrapped filming in August 2024, just two months before Payne’s passing. Netflix consulted his family before deciding to release the show as planned.
Building the Band follows a Love Is Blind-inspired format. Singers are grouped based on musical chemistry, not looks. The final bands perform in live shows filmed at Aviva Studios in Manchester. Payne’s involvement adds emotional weight to the project, marking his final screen appearance.
“People will be obsessed with Building the Band coming this summer, hosted by AJ McLean,” said Netflix’s Chief Content Officer Bela Bajaria. “Contestants will be judged and mentored by Nicole Scherzinger, with Kelly Rowland and the late Liam Payne.”
Payne rose to fame in 2010 on The X Factor, where Scherzinger was a judge. She later shared a tribute to him on Instagram, calling their reunion on the show a “blessing.” Payne’s One Direction bandmates also honored him after his death, saying they were “devastated” by the loss.
The show’s unique concept tests whether bands can succeed without visual bias. Contestants collaborate in soundproof booths, relying only on vocals and musical connection. The final episodes reveal if their chemistry holds up when looks and stage presence come into play.
Netflix’s Brandon Riegg, head of unscripted content, confirmed the team worked closely with Payne’s family. The singer’s tragic fall in Argentina led to an ongoing investigation, with five people charged in connection with his death.
“This was one of the final things Liam did before his tragic passing,” said AJ McLean at the iHeartRadio Music Awards. “I hope the world embraces seeing him the way he really was—a light of joy and sincerity.”
Building the Band joins Netflix’s growing lineup of music competition shows. Its summer release will give fans a chance to see Payne’s final work. The series promises drama, standout performances, and a touching farewell to the pop star.
Also Read: Liam Payne’s Close Friend Roger Nores Withdraws Defamation Lawsuit Against Late Singer’s Father
Credits: Sources include Netflix, Radio Times, The Mirror, and IMDb.
