The One Direction star’s final project now stands as a celebration of his passion, legacy, and the lives he inspired
Netflix’s latest music series, Building the Band, premiered on July 9, 2025, and instantly struck an emotional chord with fans worldwide. What was meant to be an exciting new reality competition has now taken on a much deeper meaning, as the show serves as a heartfelt tribute to Liam Payne, the beloved One Direction member whose sudden passing in October 2024 left the music world in shock.
From the opening moments of the first episode, it’s clear that Building the Band isn’t just another talent show. Backstreet Boys’ AJ McLean, who hosts the series, addresses the audience with a poignant message, sharing how no one involved in the production could have imagined that they’d be saying goodbye to Liam so soon after filming wrapped. A moving montage follows, capturing Liam’s charisma, warmth, and unwavering dedication as he mentors aspiring artists. The Netflix team and production crew have officially dedicated the series to Liam and his family, ensuring his influence and spirit continue to inspire millions.
The show was one of Liam’s final professional projects, filmed just months before his untimely death. Production ended in August 2024, and two months later, the singer tragically fell from a hotel balcony in Buenos Aires. Toxicology reports revealed high levels of alcohol and other substances, a revelation that deepened the heartbreak for his fans and peers.
Building the Band showcases Liam alongside Nicole Scherzinger and Kelly Rowland as mentors, guiding ambitious young singers as they form bands without ever seeing each other face-to-face until their first performance. The series’ unique concept creates moments of suspense and raw emotion, but it’s Liam’s presence—full of compassion, humor, and genuine passion—that gives the show an added emotional weight.
During the filming, AJ McLean and Liam bonded over their shared experiences in boy bands and their personal struggles with sobriety. In a later interview, AJ revealed that Liam had shared unreleased tracks with him. He described Liam’s new material as deeply moving and expressed hope that the public will one day get to hear it, calling it some of the singer’s best work.
Liam’s family also gave their blessing for the series to air. His sister, Ruth Gibbins, posted on social media about how proud she felt watching her brother shine on screen. She wrote with heartbreak that while Liam never got the chance to see the final edit, he had poured his soul into the project and was excited for its release.
The first four episodes of Building the Band are now streaming on Netflix, with additional episodes scheduled for release on July 16 and July 23.
This series isn’t just a music competition—it’s a testament to Liam Payne’s enduring legacy. Through Building the Band, fans get to see Liam at his best: inspiring, nurturing, and wholly committed to helping others find their voice. Even in his absence, his light continues to guide and uplift a new generation of artists.
