It’s no secret by now that One Direction’s “mysterious one” Zayn Malik has left boy band One Direction, whether to spend more time with his fiance or to kickstart his solo career. It began with a message that he signed off due to stress, with rumors circling that he cheated on his fiance or that he was dealing with substance abuse. Regardless, One Direction confirmed on Facebook on March 25 that Zayn left the teen pop group. In memoriam of the quintet, why not take a look at the band’s evolution through the years from their start on X-Factor through their four albums, along with some quotes about Zayn’s departure. I’m sure the fans would want a moment of silence here.
“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,” said Simon Cowell.
“There seems to be some needless provoking going on. [Louis] was deliberately adding to the provoking. I don’t think that’s fair,” said Naughty Boy, Zayn’s producer and friend.
“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 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,” said Zayn.
“It’s been a tough few weeks, probably the toughest since the band was formed five years ago,” said Liam Payne. “We’re gutted that Zayn chose to leave, but now after a few performances as a four piece, we’re feeling confident and are determined to carry on stronger than ever.”
And now…