Simon Cowell was devastated and broke down in tears after learning of Liam Payne's tragic death in October. Payne, a former member of One Direction, died at the age of 31 after falling from a balcony in Buenos Aires. Cowell was deeply affected by the loss and was criticized by some fans who blamed him for Payne's struggles. Payne's passing was mourned by friends, family, and former bandmates, with Cowell attending his funeral and expressing his grief. Payne's close friend Sinitta remembered him as a talented and driven performer, and emphasized that fame should not be solely blamed for his struggles.
Source: https://www.thesun.co.uk/tv/33375958/simon-cowell-sobbed-liam-payne-died-one-direction