HOLLYWOOD NEWS

A Touching Tribute: Nicole Scherzinger Dedicates 'Building the Band' to Late Liam Payne! Wed July 16th, 2025

The recently premiered Netflix reality singing competition, Building the Band, carries a poignant dedication from judge and mentor Nicole Scherzinger. The Pussycat Dolls frontwoman has revealed that the show, which features the late One Direction star Liam Payne as a fellow judge, is a heartfelt tribute to him. Scherzinger shared that without the blessing of Payne's family, the show "would've never continued" to be released.

Building the Band brings together aspiring singers who form groups without ever seeing each other, relying solely on their vocal compatibility and chemistry. The series, hosted by AJ McLean of the Backstreet Boys, also features Kelly Rowland of Destiny's Child on the judging panel alongside Scherzinger and Payne.

A "Bittersweet" Experience: Honoring Liam Payne's Legacy

Speaking in recent interviews, including an appearance on Late Night with Seth Meyers, Nicole Scherzinger described watching Building the Band as "bittersweet" following Liam Payne's tragic passing in October 2024. Payne, who died at the age of 31, had completed filming his segments for the show before his untimely death.

Scherzinger emphasized the deep respect and love the cast and crew had for Liam. "We've dedicated this show to Liam. We're so proud of him. He had such an amazing time. We had so much fun doing the show together and he's such a beautiful, kind soul and heart," she stated, reflecting on their time working together.

Full Circle Moment: From X Factor to Mentorship

The show holds a particularly special significance for Scherzinger, who played a pivotal role in forming One Direction during her time as a judge on The X Factor UK in 2010. She remarked on the "full circle" moment of seeing Liam, who started as a hopeful contestant, return to mentor new artists.

"It's really cool. We've come full circle, especially Liam and I from X Factor, too," Scherzinger explained. "He's walked this path so he's the perfect person to be able to help people in this way, to be able to give back. And he loved it. He really believed in the bands and the show."

The series' opening episode also features a heartfelt tribute from host AJ McLean, dedicating the show to Liam and his family, and highlighting his "deep love for music and his unwavering commitment to helping others find their voice."

The decision to release Building the Band after Liam's death was made with the full support and blessings of his family, who were reportedly involved in the process during filming. This dedication ensures that the show serves as a lasting testament to Liam Payne's passion for music and his generous spirit in supporting emerging talent.

Building the Band is now streaming on Netflix, offering viewers a chance to witness Liam Payne's final on-screen project and experience the profound impact he had on his fellow judges and the aspiring musicians.

Latest film industry related Hot Hollywood News:

- Inside Priyanka Chopra Jonas’ Dreamy Miami Vacation With Family. See Pics

- Watch: Priyanka Chopra Picks Hot Dog Over Vada Pav, Internet Calls Her “Pardesi Girl”

- Kareena Kapoor Can't Get Enough Of Brad Pitt's Looks After Watching ‘F1’