Roger Nores, the Argentinian businessman and close friend of late One Direction star Liam Payne, has officially dropped his $10 million defamation lawsuit against the singer’s father, Geoff Payne. The lawsuit, filed in January 2025, accused Geoff of making false statements that damaged Nores’ reputation following Liam’s tragic death in October 2024. Nores voluntarily dismissed the case on April 9, 2025, after previously insisting on an apology from Geoff .
Manslaughter Charges Dropped Earlier
Nores was initially charged with involuntary manslaughter in connection with Liam’s death, but the charges were dismissed in February 2025. Argentinian authorities had accused him of failing in his “duties of care” toward Liam, who struggled with addiction. However, the court ruled Nores had no legal obligation to ensure Liam’s safety, clearing him of wrongdoing .
Hotel employees Gilda Martin and Esteban Grassi were also cleared, while two others—Ezequiel Pereyra and Braian Paiz—remain in prison for allegedly supplying drugs to Liam .
Lawsuit Claims and Dismissal
Nores’ lawsuit alleged that Geoff Payne made “false and misleading” statements in sworn declarations to Argentinian prosecutors, claiming Nores was responsible for Liam’s care. Nores argued these statements harmed his reputation in the U.S., particularly in Florida, where the lawsuit was filed .
In an email to Liam’s estate attorney, Nores wrote:
“Geoff doesn’t need to apologize. I’ll always remember when he came to me the first night at the ranch after I had picked them up at the airport, how he asked me to promise I would never give up on Liam, no matter what. I kept that promise right until the end, and it was pretty hard.” .
Liam’s estate had previously dismissed Nores’ claims, stating Geoff cooperated with authorities and did not defame Nores .
Liam Payne’s Final Days and Toxicology Report
Liam died on October 16, 2024, after falling from a third-floor balcony at the CasaSur Palermo Hotel in Buenos Aires. Toxicology reports revealed a lethal mix of alcohol, cocaine, crack, ketamine, and antidepressants in his system at the time of death .
Nores, who spent Liam’s final months with him, described the tragedy as “bad luck” and emphasized his role as a friend rather than a caretaker .
Legal and Emotional Aftermath
Nores’ decision to drop the lawsuit marks the end of a contentious legal battle. His lawyer, Rafael Cuneo Libaron, stated that drugs were ultimately responsible for Liam’s death .
