Zayn Malik Has Officially Left One Direction: Read The Statement

Bradley Stern | March 25, 2015 9:43 am
Zayn Malik Leaves One Direction Tour
Zayn Malik has been the subject of many scandals and Trending Topics in the past, but it looks like the latest rumor might have done a little too much damage.

Well, it happened: After temporarily pulling out of One Direction‘s 2015 On The Road Again World Tour due to “stress,” Zayn Malik has officially left the band.

The group, as well as both the singer and Simon Cowell individually, have left statements on One Direction’s Facebook page.

After five incredible years Zayn Malik has decided to leave One
Direction. Niall, Harry, Liam and Louis will continue as a four-piece and look forward to the forthcoming concerts of their world tour and recording their fifth album, due to be released later this year.

Zayn says: “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.”

One Direction say: “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.”

Simon Cowell says: “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.”

What do you think about the future of One Direction? Sound off in the comments below.