Mandatory Credit: Photo by David Fisher/REX
After questions about Zayn Malik’s future with the band One Direction were raised weeks ago after it was revealed he had been recording music outside of the band, the band has announced they and Malik have officially parted ways.
On Wednesday March 25, the band posted a lengthy statement to their Facebook page with the shocking announcement. “After five incredible years Zayn Malik has decided to leave One Direction,” the statement begins before stating that Niall, Harry, Liam and Louis will continue on as planned with their tour and recording their fifth album later this year.
The post includes three statements one from Zayn, one from the band and one from Simon Cowell, who put the five boys together in 2010 on The X Factor.
Zayn’s statement reads: “My life with One Direction has been more than I could have ever 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.”
Malik’s decision comes only days after he announced he would be taking a stress leave from their current On The Road Again tour and although it was initially reported he would be returning at the end of March for the remainder of the tour, there were already rumors he had lawyers looking into ending his inclusion in the band.
“We’re really sad to see Zayn go, but we totally respect his decision and send him all our love for the future,” the rest of the band said in part of their statement.
To read the full statement check out One Direction’s Facebook page.
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Telisa Carter
Telisa enjoys learning and writing about all things entertainment in the world of Hollywood. When she isn't catching up on her favorite TV shows, she likes to read, and obsess over all things football.