Cheryl Appointed Administrator of Liam Payne’s $32.2 Million Estate Following His Untimely Death

Seven months after the tragic passing of former One Direction member Liam Payne, his ex-partner Cheryl has been named as one of the administrators of his substantial estate. Payne, who died at the age of 31 in October 2024 after falling from a hotel balcony in Buenos Aires, left behind an estate valued at approximately $32.2 million but did not leave a will, leading to its administration under UK intestacy laws. 

Legal Proceedings and Estate Administration

In the absence of a will, UK law dictates that the estate is typically managed by the closest relatives. Court documents issued in May 2025 state that Cheryl, with whom Payne shared an 8-year-old son named Bear, and attorney Richard Mark Bray have been appointed to manage the estate. The gross value of Payne’s estate in the UK is reported to be around $38 million. 

Cheryl and Bray currently have limited authority over the estate and cannot distribute the assets until full legal proceedings are completed. Under UK intestacy laws, if there is no surviving spouse or civil partner, the deceased’s children generally inherit the estate. Therefore, Bear is expected to be the primary beneficiary, with the assets likely placed in a trust until he reaches the age of majority. 

Cheryl’s Public Statement

Following Payne’s death, Cheryl issued a heartfelt public statement, describing the loss as an “earth shattering event.” She emphasized that Liam was not only a celebrity but also “a son, a brother, an uncle, a dear friend and a father to our 7-year-old son.” She added, “A son that now has to face the reality of never seeing his father again. Please give Liam the little dignity he has left in the wake of his death to rest in some peace at last.” 

Circumstances Surrounding Payne’s Death

Payne’s untimely death was a shock to fans and the music industry. He died after falling from a third-floor hotel balcony in Buenos Aires. An Argentinian official ruling confirmed that suicide was not a factor, with toxicology reports and witness accounts citing drug use as a contributing context. 

Legacy and Ongoing Legal Proceedings

The legal proceedings surrounding Payne’s estate continue, with Cheryl and Bray handling administrative responsibilities until full authority is granted. The process ensures that the estate is managed in accordance with UK laws, safeguarding the interests of the rightful heir, Bear.

Liam Payne’s legacy as a talented artist and devoted father lives on through his music and his son. The appointment of Cheryl as an administrator reflects a commitment to honoring his wishes and securing his son’s future.