Even though they parted ways in 2018, Cheryl was still a very important person in Liam Payne's life - and a cryptic message appears to show just how much the mother of his child meant to him.
The former One Direction star, who has tragically died at the age of 31 following a fall in Argentina, began dating Cheryl in 2016. During their two years together, they were one of the most famous and talked about couples in showbiz.
The two singers welcomed son Bear to the world in 2017, splitting up shortly after his first birthday. Although their own relationship ultimately didn't work out, they remained mutually respectful and dedicated to raising young Bear as a co-parenting team.
Indeed, back in 2019, Liam made a telling remark about Cheryl, now 41, which offered a glimpse into how the Girls Aloud star was there for him when he needed support.
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Dave Benett/Getty Images)In the documentary Ant Middleton & Liam Payne: Straight Talking, Liam praised his famous ex, whom he described as the 'best mum'. He shared, "She's one of the most, if not the most, important people in my life." Not disclosing what he meant exactly, he went on to say: "I'm lucky I have someone who understands what I'm going through."
Cheryl first met Liam during her time as a judge on The X Factor. He was then just 14, and auditioning as a solo singer - little knowing the enormous successes he would go on to enjoy as part of one of the biggest boybands of all time. At the time, Cheryl, then 24, was still married to footballer Ashley Cole and was known to fans as Cheryl Cole.
Many years later, when Cheryl was 32 and Liam was 22, their relationship became romantic. Despite the 10-year age gap, the pair had plenty in common - having both known what it was like to rise to fame and fortune through high-profile TV talent shows.
As a member of Girls Aloud, Cheryl also knew what it was like to be in a wildly successful pop group from a young age. She herself was just 19 years old when she auditioned for Popstars: The Rivals in 2002, a choice that would make her a household name.
This comes as Simon Cowell's brother, Tony, claimed that Liam had 'never stopped loving' Cheryl in the years since his split. Tony told Closer magazine: "I feel for Cheryl, as I know Liam never stopped loving her, and Bear. It's going to be so difficult for her. I can't imagine her pain. Louis Walsh is devastated too. He told me, 'Liam had this star quality about him. I will miss him'."
Liam's girlfriend, Kate Cassidy, has today stated that she is 'shattered' in a heartbreaking new tribute to the late singer. Taking to Instagram, Kate wrote: "I don't even know where to begin. My heart is shattered in ways I can't put into words. I wish you could see the huge impact you've had on the world, even as it feels so dark right now. You brought so much happiness and positivity to everyone-millions of fans, your family, friends, and especially me. You are so incredibly loved.
"You are because I can't say were - my best friend, the love of my life, and everyone you touched felt just as special as I did. Your energy was contagious, lighting up every room you walked into. None of this feels real, and I can't wrap my head around this new reality of not having you here. I'm struggling to figure out how to live in a world without you by my side. Together, we got to be kids again, always finding joy in the smallest things."
She continued: "Liam, you had the kindest soul and the most fun-loving spirit. It feels like I've lost the best part of myself. I can't imagine a day without your laughter and love. You brought so much light into my life."
The Mirror has previously approached Cheryl's reps for further comment on this story.
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