Liam Payne, former One Direction member and acclaimed solo artist, reportedly resigned from his music career just hours before his unexpected passing. The 31-year-old musician had allegedly submitted documents ending his role as a director in his four primary companies, as confirmed by records obtained from Companies House. Payne’s resignation marks a somber conclusion to a complex and influential career that had captivated fans around the world, as well as the music industry.

Reports Indicate Payne’s Financial Troubles and Resignation

According to Times Now, Payne had been facing significant financial setbacks with his four companies—Hampton Music Ltd, Hampton Records Ltd, Long Play Touring LLP, and Hampton Publishing Ltd—which had seen severe declines in valuation. Reports suggest that Hampton Music Ltd was valued at only €17,300 in 2023, while Hampton Records Ltd, once worth €300,000 in 2022, had fallen to below €75,000. The touring-focused Long Play Touring LLP dropped from €135,000 to €17,000 over the past year, while Hampton Publishing Ltd was valued at just €729.

Sources indicate that these declines may have influenced Payne’s decision to resign, with Belfast Live reporting that he had already stepped down as a director due to his companies’ diminishing value. The financial pressures had reportedly been mounting, and sources suggest that his decision to quit may have been connected to these troubling developments.

Strained Relationships with Labels and Personal Challenges

Adding to Payne’s challenges, Universal Music had recently ended its contract with the singer, as reported by the Daily Mail. Payne’s original record deal with Capitol Records, which falls under the Universal Music umbrella, had not produced the returns needed to cover his advances. This separation left Payne without a label for his music, further compounding his financial and career pressures.

ABC News also disclosed that Payne’s former PR team had resigned in October, leaving him without representation. This came on the heels of legal action filed by his former fiancée, Maya Henry, who alleged that Payne was repeatedly trying to contact her despite their separation. These events intensified the challenges the artist faced in his final months, according to sources.

Substance Use and Struggles in Liam Payne’s Final Days

A preliminary autopsy, reported by ABC News, confirmed the presence of multiple substances in Liam Payne’s system, including a dangerous blend colloquially known as “pink cocaine.” This drug mix often contains methamphetamine, ketamine, MDMA, cocaine, and crack among other substances. Although further toxicology reports are pending, these findings have cast light on the private struggles that Payne may have been dealing with.

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In his final musical endeavor, Payne had released a single titled “Teardrops” earlier this year. Fans noted that the song’s lyrics hinted at struggles and emotions that, in retrospect, suggest a possible reflection of his personal battles.

Disclaimer: If you or someone you know is struggling with substance abuse, please reach out for help. Numerous helplines and support services are available.

For more updates on Liam Payne, tune in to Vviptimes.

Sources: Times Now, People Magazine, ABC News, Belfast Live, Daily Mail