Liam Payne's funeral: One Direction reunion, music tributes planned
What's the story
The funeral of former One Direction member, Liam Payne, will be held in his hometown of Wolverhampton, England.
The 31-year-old singer tragically died after falling from a hotel balcony in Buenos Aires, Argentina last month.
His death has prompted global tributes from fans and an investigation into three individuals who may have been involved in the incident.
Authorities have said Payne's injuries were "incompatible with life," with investigations still ongoing.
Final journey
Payne's body returned to the UK amid global tribute
After getting clearance for transport, Payne's father, Geoff Payne, brought his son's body back to the UK.
The flight landed at London Heathrow and was tracked by thousands of fans, making it the most-followed flight in history.
In Wolverhampton, fans have begun leaving flowers and messages near St. Peter's Collegiate Church as a mark of respect for the late singer.
Farewell ceremony
Funeral details: 'Big send-off' planned for Payne
Per Mirror, Payne's funeral will be a "big send-off" at a large venue, considering his popularity.
However, fans have been requested not to attend the private ceremony. Regardless, thousands are expected to line the streets as the funeral procession passes through Wolverhampton.
The ceremony will reportedly include music tributes from top artists in honor of Payne's love for music.
Star-studded attendance
One Direction reunion, celebrity attendees expected at funeral
Payne's former One Direction bandmates—Harry Styles, Louis Tomlinson, Niall Horan, and Zayn Malik—are likely to attend the funeral.
Other expected attendees include his girlfriend Kate Cassidy and ex, Cheryl Tweedy, who shares a son with Payne.
Notably, Tweedy has a tough decision to make on whether to take their seven-year-old son Bear Payne to the service.
Several friends from the entertainment industry such as James Corden, Simon Cowell, Nicole Scherzinger, and Dermot O'Leary are also likely to be present.
Advocacy initiative
'Liam's Law' petition gains momentum post Payne's death
In the wake of Payne's death, fans have started a petition for "Liam's Law," calling for better mental health care and support in the entertainment industry.
The petition has received over 135K signatures, a testament to fans' dedication to honoring Payne's memory with meaningful change.
The gathering in Wolverhampton will surely be a heartfelt moment for his loved ones and fans alike.