Louis Tomlinson Expresses Doubt About One Direction Reunion

Louis Tomlinson has effectively ruled out a One Direction reunion, revealing in a candid Rolling Stone UK interview that he cannot foresee the band reconvening following Liam Payne’s tragic death last year.

The singer, who is preparing to release his third solo album How Did I Get Here? on January 23rd, addressed speculation about a potential One Direction reunion after attending Oasis’ reunion show in Cardiff this summer. When asked whether witnessing the Manchester band’s long-awaited return had sparked similar thoughts about his former group, Tomlinson acknowledged the initial feeling but dismissed it as romantic idealism rather than realistic possibility.

“That was one of the first feelings I got when I was there, but I think it’s more that you’re romanticising the idea than [thinking about] the reality of the situation,” Tomlinson explained to the publication. The prospect of a One Direction reunion has become “infinitely more complicated” since Payne’s untimely death, with the singer stating he would be “really surprised” if such an event materialised.

The emotional weight of Payne’s absence looms large over any discussion of the band’s future. Tomlinson reflected that reconvening as a four-piece with Niall Horan, Harry Styles, and Zayn Malik would “feel like something else, almost.” Before Payne’s passing, the singer had harboured hopes for a potential reunion, admitting he “kind of always had it in the back of my mind” that the group would “do something, even if it’s just one big show.”

However, Tomlinson found solace in a poignant realisation about their final performance together. “I also kind of love that the last time that we were on stage together, Liam was there. That’s just so perfect,” he revealed.

Despite ruling out a One Direction reunion, fans can anticipate seeing Tomlinson reconnect with former bandmate Malik in an upcoming Netflix documentary series. The three-part project, directed by Nicola Marsh of Song Exploder fame, will follow the pair on a “spontaneous adventure” across the US, offering viewers a “rare look” at their private lives and rekindled friendship.

The yet-to-be-titled documentary will explore themes of “life, love, loss, and fatherhood,” according to Netflix’s press release, presenting an intimate portrait of both artists beyond their public personas.