Influencer Kate Cassidy has openly shared the poignant details of her final, emotional farewell with former One Direction star Liam Payne, just days before his tragic death in October 2024, emphasizing the profound importance of cherishing loved ones.
In an emotional video shared on TikTok on October 12, 2025, influencer Kate Cassidy opened up about her “long, heartfelt” final goodbye with her late boyfriend, Liam Payne. The video, released just days before the one-year anniversary of his passing, offers a deeply personal look into the last moments she shared with the beloved former One Direction singer.
Cassidy, 26, recalled feeling “extremely numb” as she filmed the video, using the platform to convey a crucial message: the importance of reminding loved ones how much they are cherished, as “you never know what tomorrow brings.” Her candid reflection has resonated deeply with fans, highlighting the unpredictable nature of life and the lasting impact of heartfelt goodbyes.
The Poignant Farewell Before Tragedy
Cassidy detailed the emotional conversation that took place in Argentina, where she had left Payne just days before his death. She recounted sitting on a couch, expressing how much she would miss him and how deeply she loved him. The goodbye felt unusually prolonged and profound.
In a chilling moment, Payne looked at her and said, “You’re going to miss your flight. You’re acting like this is the last time you’re ever going to see me again.” Cassidy admitted, “little did I know, it literally was the last time I got to see him.” Despite the heartbreaking irony, she expressed gratitude for the meaningful farewell, stating, “I’m so, so glad that me and Liam had that last goodbye the way it was,” as reported by TODAY.com.
The influencer’s recollection serves as a powerful reminder for many to openly communicate their affections and appreciation, echoing the sentiment of her TikTok video which can be viewed here.
A Love Story Cut Short: Liam and Kate’s Journey
Liam Payne, who was 31 at the time of his death, and Kate Cassidy had a relationship that spanned approximately two years. Their romance first gained public attention when they were spotted together at a Halloween party in October 2022. Speculation intensified when Cassidy shared a photo of Payne on Instagram during a trip to Rome the following month.
The couple officially confirmed their relationship in December 2022, making a joint appearance at the British Fashion Awards. Despite rumors of a split in May 2023, they quickly dispelled them by being photographed holding hands in London a month later. According to Cassidy on Jay Shetty’s “On Purpose” podcast, they had just purchased a house together in the United States, embarking on a new chapter of their lives when tragedy struck. This detail adds another layer of sorrow to their untimely separation, emphasizing plans and dreams that were abruptly halted.
Liam Payne’s Tragic Passing and Public Reflection
On October 16, 2024, Liam Payne tragically died after falling from a hotel balcony in Buenos Aires, Argentina. An autopsy later confirmed that his death was due to “polytrauma,” referring to multiple injuries affecting various organs or systems. A subsequent toxicology report revealed the presence of “alcohol, cocaine and prescription antidepressants” in his system, as reported by TODAY.com. Payne had openly discussed his struggles with addiction prior to his death, a battle that resonated with many of his fans and the public.
Following his passing, Cassidy expressed her profound grief on Instagram stories, describing herself as being at “a complete loss.” She shared a heartfelt tribute, writing, “Liam, my angel. You are everything. I want you to know I loved you unconditionally and completely. I will continue to love you for the rest of my life. I love you Liam.” Her attendance at his funeral in England in November 2024, alongside his former One Direction bandmates, underscored the depth of their connection and the collective mourning for the beloved artist.
Grief, Resilience, and Mental Well-being
In the wake of Payne’s death, Kate Cassidy candidly admitted her struggles to “live [her] life,” grappling with immense grief and pain. Speaking at a National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) benefit, she revealed, “I was always just kind of doing nothing and just dealing with that grief and pain, just not wanting to really live my life.”
Recognizing the need for change, Cassidy embarked on a journey towards healing. She began by setting an alarm to get out of bed an hour earlier each day, gradually incorporating physical activity and clean eating into her routine. She emphasized the positive impact these habits have had on her mental health, stating, “I like to always be up early, have a workout class planned, go for a nice walk, eat cleaner. I feel like, for me, being active, always keeps my mind so much cleaner and healthier.” Her story of proactive self-care offers a poignant message about navigating loss and prioritizing mental well-being.
Remembering Liam: His Legacy and Fan Connection
Liam Payne’s memory continues to live on, not only through his music but also through the personal stories shared by those closest to him. Cassidy’s “manifesting” TikTok video, posted in 2023, revealed her childhood dream of dating a One Direction member, a dream that incredibly came true. This heartfelt detail resonated deeply with the fan community, offering a glimpse into the magical, almost fated nature of their relationship. The video, captioned “the power of manifesting, I guess,” showcased a drawing of Payne on a popsicle stick from her childhood, followed by a reveal of him lying on a bed in her presence.
In August 2025, Cassidy posted a touching tribute to Payne on what would have been his 32nd birthday, expressing her longing: “My dearest Liam, It breaks my heart being that I can’t hand you a physical birthday card today. That I can’t hear your laugh, or tell you all the things I wish I’d said a thousand more times.” Her continued public commemorations ensure that Liam’s spirit and the love they shared remain in the hearts of his fans and loved ones.
