“He loved to give back” - Nicole Scherzinger reflects on working with Liam Payne on Netflix’s ‘Building the Band’

Nicole Scherzinger is giving us a moment of full-circle sweetness as Building the Band premieres on Netflix, and yes, Liam Payne shines through, even posthumously. Scherzinger, once pivotal in shaping One Direction on The X Factor, now reflects fondly on her time alongside Payne as they co-mentored budding talent.

The series marks not just an inventive take on musical matchmaking but also stands as Liam Payne’s final screen appearance. Amid the heartbreak of his untimely demise, Nicole’s reflections remind us of why Payne "loved to give back", his passion for music and mentoring clearly left a lasting mark during those summer shoots. Netflix viewers will hear the gist of their professional chemistry early on, setting the tone for both a competition and a tribute.

How Nicole Scherzinger reflects on working with Liam Payne on Netflix’s ‘Building the Band’

Nicole Scherzinger didn’t hold back when recounting working with the late Liam Payne on Building the Band. She said it was “so beautiful to see Liam come full circle,” recalling how he found pure joy in guiding novice singers, something he clearly valued deeply. The former Pussycat Dolls singer-turned-Tony-winning actress warmed up to the nyc format: six vocalists building bands sight unseen, based solely on harmony and chemistry. Nicole celebrated it as “a social experiment” that actually hit emotional and creative high notes.

And yes, Liam was right in his element. Nicole shared charming anecdotes, for instance, Payne belting “What Makes You Beautiful” during breaks, just for the fun of it . She emphasized that he wasn’t there for showbiz glory, but genuinely to help:

“He really cared, and even worked with the bands off camera”. That’s the kind of generosity she meant when she said he “loved to give back.” It wasn’t posed or performative, it was love for music and people, pure and simple.

Nicole also touched on Liam’s family presence. His parents were reportedly close to the judges’ table, giving their blessing to the show and its tone.

“They told us, ‘This is how we want everyone to remember Liam,’” she noted.

Their support was essential in keeping Liam’s spirit alive in each episode—a respectful foundation rather than a glitzy marketing ploy. AJ McLean (host and fellow band veteran) opened the series with a sincere dedication:

“When we came together to film… we never imagined we’d soon be saying goodbye…”

followed by the promise to honor Payne and his family through the cast’s shared love of music. With Nicole and Kelly Rowland in the judge’s seat, the balance of mentorship felt right, not just shaping singers but celebrating connections, and doing so with heart and humor.

To say Nicole admired Liam would be an understatement. She saw a man who started as a boy bander and ended as a wise mentor, using his platform to uplift, not eclipse, others. That intangible bond of giving back is what she champions in her reflection, and Netflix’s documentary-competition beautifully captures the glow of Payne’s legacy.

Liam Payne’s final act: Death, legacy and Netflix

Liam Payne, born August 29, 1993, tragically passed away October 16, 2024, following a fall from a hotel balcony in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Toxicology reports later found traces of alcohol, cocaine, and antidepressants in his system, and three individuals faced charges related to drug supply and abandonment. His funeral in November 2024 was private, with One Direction colleagues and family paying tribute.

Yet, even amid a tragic end, Payne’s final work took center stage. Building the Band premiered July 9, 2025, with Netflix dedicating the series to his memory. Filmed through summer and early fall 2024, he shot pre-taped segments as a guest judge, alongside Kelly Rowland and Nicole Scherzinger. AJ McLean’s opening tribute and the subsequent episodes’ content are meant to underscore not just his vocal expertise, but his mentoring spirit.

This Netflix venture offered more than reality drama, it was Liam’s parting gift. His presence helped shape the contestants’ journeys and left a lasting impression. Critics and viewers have noted the emotional weight he brings. His sister, Ruth Gibbins, shared pride watching him, heartbroken he didn’t get to see it, but proud nonetheless.

'Building the Band', therefore doubles as an inventive take on talent shows and a moving tribute to a life cut short, but well-lived. It gives Liam Payne one last stage, one last opportunity to champion new talent, and reminds us how sometimes, the final act echoes the sweetest.

Liam Payne’s story is framed by loss, yes, but also by generosity and love for music. In Building the Band, Netflix offers fans a lens into his compassionate side, illuminated by Nicole Scherzinger’s heartfelt recollections. It’s more than entertainment, it’s a celebration of an artist and mentor who truly loved to give back.