Will 'Building The Band' By Netflix Be Released Despite the Death of Liam Payne?

The answer is 'Yes' and it will be a powerful tribute to the late singer. Building The Band, Netflix's newest music competition series, is set to premiere its first four episodes on 9 July, and it features a posthumous appearance by former One Direction star Liam Payne.

The show, which Payne had been filming before his tragic death in October 2024, will mark his final television project. Payne died aged 31 after falling from the third floor of a hotel in Buenos Aires while on a private trip. At the time, he had already recorded a substantial amount of footage for Building The Band, and Netflix has confirmed that his presence will remain central to the show's narrative, with the full blessing of his family.

'Even though Liam had filmed a substantial amount of material, the decision was made shortly after his passing to continue the project, honour his legacy, and bring this series to audiences,' a Netflix source shared.

A Tribute To Liam Payne's Last Project

Hosted by Backstreet Boys icon AJ McLean, the show brings together 50 talented solo singers with the goal of forming new music groups—not based on looks or performance first, but pure musical chemistry. Contestants must create their dream bands from within isolated booths, choosing solely based on vocals and connection, before they ever lay eyes on one another. The format adds a unique emotional and creative tension to the reality music show space.

Building The Band boasts an impressive judging panel. Aside from McLean, Nicole Scherzinger serves as lead judge and mentor, while Kelly Rowland and Liam Payne join as guest judges. Payne's episodes appear later in the series, where he provides insight, encouragement, and critiques to up-and-coming artists.

Netflix will open the series with a special tribute to Liam, led by AJ McLean. In a poignant message, McLean says:

'When we came together to film Building The Band, we never imagined we'd soon be saying goodbye to our friend Liam Payne... Through his presence, we see his deep love for music and his unwavering commitment to helping others find their voice. We dedicate this series to Liam and his family.'

Fans And Family React

Liam's family has spoken publicly about the show in recent weeks. His sister, Ruth Payne, admitted she was torn about posting online, saying she was 'heartbroken he never got the chance to see how brilliant he is in this show.' Still, she expressed overwhelming pride: 'Watching it back—wow. You're a star, Liam, you always were and always will be.'

Fans have also shared emotional reactions since the trailer's release. One commented: 'Thank you from the bottom of my heart for this TV show! It will be special for all viewers to watch the talented @LiamPayne, who looks divine in the trailer... Thank you sooo much!' Another wrote: 'Don't know how I'm gonna get through this without crying when I just cried watching the trailer. RIP Teddy Bear. We love and miss you so much.'

Final Encore

Behind the scenes, Payne was remembered as 'chatty and approachable' by director Simon Hay, with another crew member describing him as 'charming' and deeply committed to the contestants.

The show's premise, focused on chemistry over visuals, feels even more resonant now—reflecting the unseen bonds that shape both music and human connection. With Liam Payne's voice, smile, and passion shining through in every frame, Building The Band is more than just a reality competition. It's a final encore for a beloved artist, and a gift to his fans.