‘He would be alive if he hadn’t auditioned’ says X Factor’s Rebecca Ferguson as she breaks silence on Liam Payne’s death

REBECCA Ferguson has insisted Liam Payne would "still be alive" if he'd never auditioned for The X Factor.

She and Liam - who died yesterday aged 31 after falling from a hotel balcony in Buenos Aires - both competed in the 2010 series of Simon Cowell's ITV reality show.

Singer Rebecca, 38, took to social media to speak out after former One Direction star Liam's sad passing was confirmed.

She wrote: "It's always a hotel room!

"We both met at Euston station and shared the taxi together to X Factor.

"I can't help but think of that boy who was hopeful and looking forward to his bright future ahead.

"If he hadn't jumped on that train and jumped in that taxi I believe he would be alive today."

She added: "Rest in peace Liam, I hope you find peace on the other side and love to your mum and family x."

Rebecca has been outspoken about her time on The X Factor and the years that followed.

In 2023 the Nothing's Real But Love hitmaker claimed she "lived through hell" while filming for the ITV programme.

In a statement, Liam's family said this afternoon: "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 during this awful time."

It comes as:

• Liam's cause of death was released by medics
• A heartbreaking 911 call from worried hotel staff was revealed
• Cops are reportedly set to hunt for a drug dealer
• The star's ex says he "predicted his early death"
• Liam's girlfriend revealed why she left Argentina
• Simon Cowell cancelled BGT auditions after Liam's death

In the hours before his death, dad-of one Liam had shared Snapchat posts detailing his plans to play polo and showing what he had for breakfast, despite it being 1pm.

Girlfriend Kate Cassidy, 25, could be heard saying they were "losers" for getting up so late.

They had arrived in Argentina on September 25 and were staying at Hotel CasaSur in the neighbourhood of Palermo when Liam died.

Tributes have poured in for the singer with celebrities and fans alike sharing their heartbreak.

Former bandmate Harry Styles' mum shared a moving tribute to Liam on Instagram writing in the caption: "Just a boy…".

While Liam's ex-fiancée Maya Henry was " in shock" in the wake of the tragic news.