Katie Waissel takes aim at Simon Cowell as she seeks ‘justice’ for Liam Payne

Katie Waissel has publicly criticized Simon Cowell in the aftermath of Liam Payne’s tragic passing, suggesting that the X Factor judge would be “a fool” to respond to the loss of the One Direction star. Waissel, who competed on the same season of the show that launched Payne into the spotlight, made her remarks as X Factor announced it would cancel a taping out of respect for the late singer.

While Cowell, who played a pivotal role in forming One Direction back in 2010, has not yet commented on Payne’s death, X Factor expressed its heartbreak, noting Payne’s significant impact on the music industry and his enduring legacy among fans.

As a friend and fellow contestant of Payne, Waissel has been outspoken about her grievances with both Cowell and the show, alleging that they exploit young artists. In a post on X, she cautioned Cowell against making any statements about Payne’s death, asserting that if he did, “he would be a fool.” She further hinted at deeper issues, stating, “We all know the truth, and I’ll be sure it all comes out.”

Waissel’s discontent with Cowell has led her to pivot from her music career to pursue a law degree, with plans to sue Cowell and Syco Entertainment, the music label he founded, over what she claims are exploitative contracts for artists.

In a separate tribute, Waissel remembered Payne as someone with “a pure heart, a sharp mind, and the wisdom of an old soul.” She reiterated her concerns about Cowell and his label treating artists as mere “commodities,” attributing this “negligence of duty of care” to the heartbreaking loss of Payne.

Additionally, Waissel referenced a controversial interview Cowell conducted earlier this year, where he expressed regret about not retaining the rights to the One Direction name for future projects without the band’s consent. “The real regret should be the failure to prioritize the emotional and physical welfare of the artists who put their trust in these institutions,” she argued.

Rebecca Ferguson, another former X Factor contestant, echoed Waissel’s sentiments. Ferguson has also pursued legal action against Cowell, and in her reaction to Payne’s death, she claimed that he would still be alive if he hadn’t auditioned for the show. Ferguson has long criticized X Factor, accusing it of “exploitation and profiteering,” and previously described her experience with the show as one of “abuse of power,” stating she was coerced into “contracts the size of a Bible.”

The reactions to Payne’s death have been widespread, with fans and musicians, including Halsey, Ty Dolla $ign, Charlie Puth, and Zedd, sharing their condolences. Former One Direction members Zayn Malik and Louis Tomlinson also paid tribute on social media, while remaining members Harry Styles and Niall Horan participated in a joint message on the band’s official account.