In a shocking turn of events, Roger Nores, the former manager and close friend of late singer Liam Payne, has filed a defamation lawsuit against Payne’s father. This legal battle stems from accusations made by Payne’s father in the aftermath of the One Direction star’s tragic passing.
According to reports, Payne’s father, Geoff Payne, allegedly submitted a sworn statement to authorities in Buenos Aires, Argentina, claiming that Nores was fully responsible for Liam’s care during his final days. Nores, however, strongly denies these allegations, stating that he was never Liam’s caretaker, whether as a friend or in a professional capacity.
A Complex Timeline of Events
The lawsuit highlights several key moments in the months leading up to Liam Payne’s death:
August 2024: Nores reportedly emailed Geoff Payne, urging him to intervene in his son’s struggles with sobriety and addiction. Nores claimed he could no longer devote the same level of personal support to Liam.
October 2024: Liam Payne tragically passed away in Buenos Aires under circumstances still under investigation. Prosecutors have since charged Nores with abandonment, alleging his failure to provide proper care for Liam.
Claims of Mismanagement
In his lawsuit, Nores disputes any suggestion that he provided recreational substances or managed Liam’s prescribed medications. He asserts that Liam was independent, though struggling with addiction and often in and out of treatment centers. Nores also points out that Liam’s father had hired a bodyguard, Bedar Vata, as a caretaker, but did not arrange a replacement after the bodyguard’s dismissal.
The lawsuit also references Liam’s girlfriend, Kate Cassidy, who lived with the singer during his final months. While Nores does not directly blame her, he suggests that her proximity to Liam gave her a unique ability to influence or assist him.
A Contentious Legal Battle
Nores alleges that Geoff Payne’s statements to the police damaged his reputation, leading to the defamation claim. In a statement, Nores described Liam as a “brilliant, respectful, free man who did whatever he wanted,” emphasizing that he was a friend, not a nurse or caretaker. He also vowed to donate any money awarded from the lawsuit to Liam’s son, Bear.
Public Reactions
The legal drama has sparked strong reactions, with many questioning the motives behind the lawsuit. Critics have labeled the case as “disgusting” and “shameful,” particularly in light of the vow to donate proceeds to Bear. Some argue that the family’s focus should remain on honoring Liam’s memory rather than engaging in legal battles.
What’s Next?
As the case unfolds, it raises difficult questions about accountability and the complexities of managing addiction and mental health in high-pressure industries like entertainment. Both sides are likely to present further evidence as the lawsuit progresses, but for now, the tragic loss of Liam Payne continues to cast a shadow over those who knew and loved him.
