Zayn Malik has ignited controversy after sharing a black-and-white photograph of himself smoking what appears to be a spliff. The former One Direction star, who left the band in March, is seen relaxing in a white t-shirt, displaying his tattoos in what is believed to be his rented Bel-Air residence.
Fans reacted with dismay, with comments such as 'Zayn STOP SMOKING' and 'Really!!!!!?????' Others expressed concern for his health, writing 'You look great but your lungs don't' and 'Plsssss stop smoking babe'. The 22-year-old singer's vocal abilities could be at risk if he continues smoking.
This incident follows recent criticism of Liam Payne, who was photographed smoking a cigarette on a private jet. Smoking on commercial flights has been banned since the late 1990s, but private jet owners may permit it at their discretion.
Last year, Malik and bandmate Louis Tomlinson were filmed smoking what appeared to be a joint in an SUV while on tour in Peru. The video, which leaked online, showed Tomlinson narrating 'Joint lit. Happy days!' The pair later apologised, and a spokesperson for One Direction said lawyers were investigating the leak.
