“When we came together to film Building the Band, we never imagined we’d soon be saying goodbye to our friend, Liam Payne,” McLean says. “Liam is a guest judge in later episodes and through his presence, we see his deep love for music and his un­wavering commitment to helping others find their voice.”

Netflix’s “Building the Band” paid tribute to Liam Payne during episode 1. Payne, who died at age 31 in October 2024, posthumously appears as a judge on the reality competition series. At the start of the premiere episode, host AJ McLean acknowledged Payne’s death.

Devastated fans of the late Liam Payne have been brought to tears with the release of his final project on Netflix, Building The Band. Filmed just weeks prior to his death at the age of 31, the show showcases Liam's compassionate side as he nurtures the talents of budding musicians,