The trailer for Building the Band, Liam Payne’s final television project, premiered Tuesday, prompting an emotional tribute from his sister, Ruth Gibbins, who reflected on the late singer’s work and lasting impact.
Payne, who died in October at age 31, had completed filming for the Netflix competition series before his unexpected passing. His family has since approved his inclusion in the project, which will be released posthumously.
Ruth Gibbins Shares Heartfelt Words
Gibbins took to Instagram to share her feelings about seeing her brother on screen once more.
“I didn’t know whether to share this, but it felt weird when I’ve raved about Liam’s work and achievements for the last 15 years,” she wrote, alongside a clip of the trailer. “I’m heartbroken he never got to see how great he is in this show.”
“He knew he had done a good job, we all told him this when we were at filming,” she continued. “But watching it back, wow!”
She ended her post with a heartfelt message: “You’re a star Liam, you always were and always will be. There are a range of emotions I felt watching this, but one of the main ones is immeasurable pride, always. Miss you more every day.”
Ruth, Liam’s sister, via Instagram stories 🤍 pic.twitter.com/aFEXXtUYiG
— Liam Payne Memories (@LiamPUpdate) June 24, 2025
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What Is Building the Band?
According to Netflix’s description, Building the Band brings together a diverse group of vocalists in a unique twist on the traditional music competition format. Contestants form bands from within isolated “booths,” relying entirely on musical compatibility and chemistry, without ever laying eyes on one another until the bands are finalized.
The show is hosted by AJ McLean of Backstreet Boys fame. Nicole Scherzinger, former Pussycat Dolls singer and recent Tony Award winner, will serve as both mentor and judge. Kelly Rowland and Liam Payne appear as guest judges, with Payne’s involvement now serving as a posthumous celebration of his passion for music and collaboration.
The project will be the final screen appearance from Payne, who rose to fame as a member of One Direction and had been pursuing solo ventures in the years prior to his passing.
Fan Reactions Pour In
Fans of Payne and One Direction expressed their emotions on social media, many describing the trailer as “bittersweet” and “beautiful.”
“If it hurts this much for us as fans, it must be so much harder for his sister,” one fan wrote on X (formerly Twitter). Another added, “We miss you Liam, love you forever and always ❤️”
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if it hurts this much for us as fans, it must be so much harder for his sister:(
— mochan (@mochaan) June 24, 2025
I hope they have some recordings of Liam’s last album that they can release.
— Julie Whoever (@JulieLovesWind) June 25, 2025
A Legacy in Music
While Building the Band now carries added emotional weight, Payne’s appearance serves as a reminder of his dedication to the next generation of talent. With the show highlighting his final work in the industry, it gives fans and peers alike the opportunity to remember him not only as a pop icon but also as a supportive figure behind the scenes.
