Zayn Malik Leaves One Direction: 'I'd Like To Apologise To The Fans'
Breaking news! After five years, Zayn Malik has decided to leave One Direction and we couldn't be more gutted!
Today's certainly a very emotional day for directioners all over the world. We're sure we aren't the only ones who have 'Where Do Broken Hearts Go?' and 'Half A Heart' on repeat right now. The lyrics are sadly very fitting.Despite rumours circulating around on the internet all day, an official statement wasn't actually published by One Direction until 4:30pm. The press release confirms that One Direction will be continuing as a group without Zayn and it also features quotes that are extremely hard to read. Get your tissues at the ready guys and girls.
Reflecting on his decision, Zayn explained: "My life with One Direction has been more than I could ever have imagined. But, after five years, I feel like it is now the right time for me to leave the band. I'd like to apologise to the fans if I've let anyone down, but I have to do what feels right in my heart. I am leaving because I want to be a normal 22-year-old who is able to relax and have some private time out of the spotlight. I know I have four friends for life in Louis, Liam, Harry and Niall. I know they will continue to be the best band in the world."
Harry, Louis, Liam and Niall said: "We're really sad to see Zayn go, but we totally respect his decision and send him all our love for the future. The past five years have been beyond amazing, we've gone through so much together, so we will always be friends. The four of us will now continue. We're looking forward to recording the new album and seeing all the fans on the next stage of the world tour."
One Direction's manager Simon Cowell added: "I would like to say thank you to Zayn for everything he has done for One Direction. Since I first met Zayn in 2010, I have grown very, very fond - and immensely proud - of him. I have seen him grow in confidence and I am truly sorry to see him leave. As for One Direction, fans can rest assured that Niall, Liam, Harry and Louis are hugely excited about the future of the band."
We know we probably should haven't favourites but Zayn was always our personal favourite member of One Direction. Besides being absolutely gorgeous, Zayn's vocal range is literally incredible and we hope that he'll decide to re-join One Direction at some point. If not, we're hoping that he'll at least launch a solo career.
Still, this isn't the end for One Direction. We're excited to see what the future holds for Harry, Liam, Niall and Louis as a four-piece band. Will they hire a new member? Only time will tell. Whilst it's going to be hard seeing them continue without Zayn, we're glad that the four boys have decided to stick together as One Direction.
