Our community members are treated to special offers, promotions and adverts from us and our partners. You can check out at any time. More info In the aftermath of Liam Payne 's tragic death last month, Robbie Williams expressed his heartfelt condolences for the star, whom he described as a "handsome, talented boy" while sharing what seemed to be one of their last email exchanges.
The 50-year-old 'Angels' singer opened up about his feelings of "shock, sadness and confusion" following the news of Liam's sudden death at just 31-years-old. He reflected on how Liam's "trials and tribulations were very similar" to his own experiences, which he's been open and honest about in the past, and which he reflected on in his Netflix documentary last year. Robbie, who similarly found fame in a boyband with Take That, took to Instagram to share his thoughts on Liam's untimely passing and discuss his own battles with addiction over the years.
Liam 's heartbreaking death sparked a call for change in the music industry, with Robbie's Angels collaborator and songwriter Guy Chambers suggesting that under-18s should not be allowed to join pop bands. Chambers, who was close friends and a writing partner of Robbie Williams, has now teamed up with other industry figures to advocate for changes. He believes that thrusting young teenagers into an adult-dominated industry could be "potentially damaging".
He cited Robbie's experience during his rise to fame with Take That in the 1990s as an example, Wife.