Louis Tomlinson has conspicuously avoided in-depth discussion about former One Direction bandmate Zayn Malik in a new interview, following explosive claims the pair were involved in a 'physical altercation' while filming a forthcoming Netflix series.
Rumours of a Fallout on Set
According to a report from The Sun, the two singers, who reunited for a brand new road trip documentary, are believed to have 'fallen out' after an incident during production. It is alleged that a day of filming culminated in a physical disagreement between the pair, casting a shadow over the highly-anticipated project.
In a recent conversation with Billboard, Tomlinson, 34, spoke glowingly about the solo successes of his other former bandmates, Harry Styles, 31, and Niall Horan, 32, but offered minimal commentary on Malik, 33. When prompted about the upcoming Netflix show, Louis made a brief acknowledgment, stating: 'It was his idea, actually. I'll give him credit for that brilliance.'
Praise for Harry and Niall, Silence on Zayn
Elsewhere in the discussion, Tomlinson was effusive in his praise for Styles and Horan. 'I always knew Harry was going to go on to do what he's done — I'm sure he's superseded his own expectations in the way that he's taken over the world, but we knew he's got everything it takes to be a great artist,' he said. Regarding Horan, he added: 'And Niall, I had a good feeling about too — he's Irish, he's lovely, everyone loves him.'
The interview highlighted a notable contrast, with Malik receiving only the scant mention, fuelling speculation about the nature of their current relationship following the alleged on-set clash.
Liam Payne's Tragic Death Brought Bandmates Closer
Louis also addressed the profound impact of Liam Payne's tragic death in October 2024. Payne, aged 31, died after falling from a hotel balcony in Buenos Aires, with post-mortem tests finding alcohol and cocaine in his system. Tomlinson revealed that this loss has brought the remaining bandmates closer together.
'We are definitely closer than we were. It changes from person to person,' Louis explained. 'Like Niall, we could not exchange a text in a whole year and then go for a beer and literally chat non-stop.'
The upcoming Netflix series, for which Malik and Tomlinson reportedly signed a multi-million pound deal, was expected to feature deep discussions about their lives and memories, including Payne's passing. Sources suggested the show would involve travelling across the US, with both stars having strong links to the country.
Earlier this year, Zayn did publicly acknowledge Louis by giving him a shoutout at his Los Angeles concert. However, his relationship with the group has been strained since he quit One Direction in March 2015. The band, formed on The X Factor in 2010, achieved global superstardom, selling an estimated 70 million records and winning nearly 200 awards.
When previously questioned about the Netflix rumours during an appearance on Capital Radio, Louis remained coy. Host Jimmy Hill mentioned seeing him with Zayn and asked about the road trip show. Grinning, Tomlinson replied: 'I’ve heard the rumours, apparently so.' He declined to confirm further, stating: 'It’s not something I can really talk about too much.'
The Daily Mail has contacted representatives for both Louis Tomlinson and Zayn Malik for comment regarding the alleged altercation and the upcoming series.
