TMZ has decided to take down explicit images that sparked outrage after they were published showing the body of Liam Payne, the former One Direction star who tragically passed away in Argentina. The 31-year-old singer died following a fall from the third floor of his hotel where he was staying with his girlfriend. The American entertainment news outlet faced criticism on social media platforms, particularly Twitter, for sharing pictures of the musician’s body.
Initially, TMZ posted a photo of Liam’s body on a wooden deck at the hotel with some furniture nearby, focusing on his distinctive tattoos. However, the backlash from fans and celebrities pushed TMZ to remove the distressing images. They updated their article to describe the scene as showing Liam’s body on the hotel’s deck with tables and chairs around, highlighting his well-known tattoos – a clock on his left forearm and a scorpion on his abdomen.
Among the critics, BBC host and personality Rylan Clark expressed his disgust on Twitter, while Canadian singer-songwriter Alessia Cara called out TMZ for their actions. Despite the backlash, TMZ has not yet responded to the public outcry. Liam’s death was confirmed on Wednesday after the tragic fall at the CasaSur Palmero hotel in Buenos Aires. Emergency medical services reported that he fell into an inner courtyard of the hotel.
The upsetting incident has left fans heartbroken and the music industry mourning the loss. As TMZ retracts the controversial photos, the public continues to pay tribute to Liam Payne, remembering him for his contributions to music and his time with one of the most successful boy bands, One Direction.