Former One Direction star Liam Payne was laid to rest on November 20, 2024, in a private ceremony in Amersham, England, but much of the attention turned to his girlfriend.
Payne’s family and close friends mourned the beloved singer, whose untimely death on October 16 at a hotel in Argentina left a profound impact worldwide.
Karen and Geoff Payne, watch as their son Liam Payne’s coffin is carried into the funeral in Amersham, UK on November 20, 2024 | Source: Getty Images
Among the attendees was Payne’s girlfriend, Kate Cassidy, dressed in an all-black outfit featuring a fur-trimmed coat, dark sunglasses, and styled blonde waves.
Kate Cassidy attends Liam Payne’s funeral in Amersham, England, on November 20, 2024 | Source: Getty Images
Cassidy’s other companion was Damian Hurley, the son of actress Elizabeth Hurley and late producer Steve Bing.
Kate Cassidy and Damian Hurley attend Liam Payne’s funeral in Amersham on November 20, 2024 | Source: Getty Images
Photos of the service sparked mixed reactions online, with one commenting, “She could have worn something more ‘decent’?”
Another chimed in, “Why do they all wear sunglasses, is it some sort of status symbol,” while someone else pointed out, “Was the blow out necessary? Its a funeral not a party [sic].”
Kate Cassidy attends Liam Payne’s funeral on November 20, 2024 | Source: Getty Images
Some also suggested that Cassidy attending alone might have shown more respect.
However, others criticized the negative comments aimed at Cassidy, urging respect for Payne’s grieving family and emphasizing that such discussions were inappropriate during a time of mourning.
A netizen’s comment on Liam Payne’s funeral in Amersham, posted on November 20, 2024 | Source: Facebook.com/irishmirror
One fan expressed heartbreak over the tragic circumstances, highlighting the emotional weight of Payne’s funeral.
Meanwhile, another user remarked on Cassidy’s appearance, likening her to a supermodel.
A netizen’s comment on Kate Cassidy’s attendance at Liam Payne’s funeral in Amersham, posted on November 20, 2024 | Source: Instagram.com/usweekly
Despite the mixed reactions, some defended Cassidy with one supporter writing, “I’m so glad she came x [sic].”
Another acknowledged Cassidy’s actions, adding, “of course she deserves her place at the funeral also. Liam would have wanted that. Rest in Peace Liam 🙏💔 [sic].”
Liam Payne attends the world premiere of “I Am Bolt” in London on November 28, 2016 | Source: Getty Images
While Cassidy’s appearance drew mixed reactions, the ceremony brought together those closest to Payne to honor his life and legacy.
His former bandmates—Harry Styles, Niall Horan, Zayn Malik, and Louis Tomlinson—joined Cassidy at the service, standing in solidarity as they paid their respects.
Harry Styles and Niall Horan attend Liam Payne’s funeral service at St. Mary’s Church in Amersham on November 20, 2024 | Source: Getty Images
On October 22, before attending the service, Cassidy shared an emotional tribute to her late boyfriend on Instagram, featuring several photos of their time together, including a trip to Disneyland, an outdoor hike, winter moments, and a handwritten note.
