Former One Direction member Louis Tomlinson has sharply criticized media personality Logan Paul, expressing his intense dislike over a controversial 2022 interview involving his late bandmate, Liam Payne. In a recent discussion, Tomlinson condemned Paul's interview style, questioning the duty of care in modern media.
Key Takeaways
- Louis Tomlinson stated he will "forever despise" Logan Paul for his handling of a 2022 interview with Liam Payne.
- The interview in question was on Paul's "Impaulsive" podcast, where Payne made several controversial claims about his time in One Direction.
- Payne later apologized for his comments, admitting he was under the influence of alcohol during the podcast appearance.
- Liam Payne passed away in October 2024, adding a somber context to Tomlinson's recent remarks.
Tomlinson's Unfiltered Criticism of Paul
In a candid interview with the Independent, Louis Tomlinson did not hold back his feelings about Logan Paul. The singer's strong words stem from an interview Paul conducted with Liam Payne more than two years ago, which Tomlinson believes was handled irresponsibly.
Tomlinson voiced a deep and lasting resentment towards the media personality.
"I f—— forever despise [Logan Paul], horrible, horrible little f—–," Tomlinson said.
His criticism extended beyond a personal grievance, touching on what he perceives as a failing in the standards of new media platforms compared to traditional journalism. "I think that’s also the problem with some of this new ‘media.’ … I would like to think most journalists, some journalists have a duty of care," he explained.
The 2022 "Impaulsive" Podcast Controversy
The issue originates from Liam Payne's appearance on Logan Paul's "Impaulsive" podcast in May 2022. During the lengthy conversation, Payne made several claims that quickly generated headlines and stirred controversy among the band's fanbase.
Background: The One Direction Hiatus
One Direction, formed in 2010, became one of the world's biggest boy bands. After Zayn Malik's departure in 2015, the remaining four members—Harry Styles, Niall Horan, Liam Payne, and Louis Tomlinson—released one more album before announcing an indefinite hiatus in 2016 to pursue solo careers.
Payne spoke openly about internal conflicts within the group. He revealed that at the height of their fame, he and Tomlinson "hated each other." He also recounted an incident where another bandmate allegedly threw him against a wall.
Furthermore, Payne claimed to be the de facto leader of the group, a point Tomlinson later confirmed was true. "It was, definitely," Tomlinson acknowledged. "It was definitely a role that was assigned to him. That is the truth."
Payne's Subsequent Apologies
Following the backlash from the podcast, Liam Payne issued multiple apologies to his former bandmates. He clarified comments made about Zayn Malik, whom he had referred to in a derogatory manner.
"Listening back maybe I didn’t articulate myself as well as I could have," Payne stated at the time. "I was saying that there will always be things we disagree on but that I will always, always be on his side. That’s family. Zayn is my brother and I will stand by him forever."
In March 2023, nearly a year after the interview, Payne addressed Tomlinson directly in a heartfelt social media post. He admitted he was "out of [his] mind" due to alcohol consumption during the podcast.
Payne's public apology to Tomlinson came 10 months after the initial interview, highlighting his prolonged reflection on the incident.
"I feel ashamed in those moments to not be as good of a friend as you have been to me," Payne wrote. "At least I have time now and I’m me again so will try and make amends."
A Tragic End and Lingering Frustration
The context of this renewed criticism is shadowed by tragedy. Liam Payne died in October 2024 after falling from a third-floor hotel balcony in Buenos Aires, Argentina. A medical examiner in the UK later confirmed the cause of death was polytrauma, resulting from injuries to multiple body parts and organ systems.
Payne's passing makes Tomlinson's protective stance and his frustration with the 2022 interview even more poignant. His remarks highlight a belief that Payne was in a vulnerable state at the time and that the interview platform failed to provide a necessary level of support or ethical consideration.
Tomlinson's comments serve as a stark reminder of the long-lasting impact media appearances can have on individuals and their relationships, particularly when discussing sensitive periods of their lives.