X Factor star makes heartbreaking confession about Liam Payne as they slam industry
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A former X Factor star has admitted they understand how Liam Payne "spiralled out of control" in a devastating admission. Sean Smith, who competed on the ITV singing competition back in 2007, claimed drugs were widespread in the industry. He found fame alongside his sister thanks to being part of due Same Difference. The singer met Liam when he supported them in the early days. Liam, who appeared on X Factor in 2008 and 2010, tragically died aged 31 in October.
The former One Direction star fell from the third floor of a hotel in Argentina. Since his devastating death, stars from across the music industry have spoke about the pressures on young singers as they enter the spotlight. Sean admitted he was so shocked by the news of Liam's death, he first thought it was a hoax.
"I couldn't work out how he got there, he was so talented, grounded and from such a wonderful family that I just couldn't understand," he told the Sun. However, Sean said drugs are common in the industry as he added: "You could see how easily you get into that world and that it could spiral out of control.".
Speaking of his own experience, Sean confessed to struggling with having to be "perfect" all the time. He said: "We were told, 'It's always sunny in Same Difference world, always. You always have a big smile while being papped. If you do an interview even if there are cracks you must never show them'.".
Following the news of Liam's death, many of his X Factor co-stars paid tribute. Singer Mary Byrne competed on the same series as Liam when One Direction was created and said their relationship was like "the older mammy and the boy". Mary, who came fifth on the 2010 series, revealed she last spoke to him six years ago while they were appearing as guests on RTE's The Late Late Show.
