The One Direction boys are coming together like never before, following the heartbreaking loss of their bandmate Liam Payne in October.

A source close to the group shared that Payne's sudden passing has been a "wake-up call" for Harry Styles (30), Zayn Malik (31), Niall Horan (31), and Louis Tomlinson (32), who had been keeping in touch only sporadically in recent years. 

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The tragedy has reignited the bond they once shared. This was their first time together since Malik's departure from One Direction in 2015. The beloved band announced a hiatus in 2016, sending shockwaves throughout the entertainment industry. 

"[Liam's death] was a wake-up call for all of them. Prior, they kept in touch sporadically but didn't have close friendships at all," an insider shared in the latest issue of Us Weekly. "They're all still mourning but are checking in on each other and feel closer than they have in years. It brought them back together." 

The group has discussed the possibility of a future tribute that would honor their former bandmates' legacy. For now, they're leaning on each other, processing their grief, and working to rebuild their connection.

"The guys would love to do a tribute to Liam," said the source. "They're all so devastated right now they can't even think about that as a legitimate project, but it has been disguised. Liam's death has caused the guys immense heartbreak." 

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According to sources, the group had been in talks about doing one final reunion show before Payne's passing. However, this plan has been put on hold. 

For Directioners, the loss of Payne has sparked a surge of support and love for the band, with fans rallying around the idea of a tribute show in his honor. The outpouring of emotions has reignited nostalgia for the group's golden years, and many believe a reunion tour could not only pay tribute to the singer-songwriter, but also become one of the biggest events of 2025. 

With the strength of their fanbase and the collective love for Payne, the world is ready for One Direction to reunite on stage once more.

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Payne tragically passed away on October 16 after falling from a hotel balcony in Buenos Aires, Argentina. A preliminary autopsy indicated that he may have fallen while unconscious, as his body showed no reflexive posture to protect himself. The fall resulted in injuries that were "incompatible with life," as stated by Buenos Aires emergency services chief Alberto Crescenti.

As the group moves through this painful time, their fans are rallying around them, eager to see what's next for One Direction. Will a tribute show come to fruition? Time will tell, but for now, the guys are united by grief, love, and the memory of their dear friend.

Photo Credit: @onedirection on Instagram.