Kate Cassidy, the social media influencer and late girlfriend of One Direction'sLiam Payne, has returned to the U.S. following the singer's tragic death. Sources close to Cassidy reveal that while her lifestyle has significantly changed, she is determined to move forward and rebuild her life.
During their relationship, Payne, 31, supported Cassidy financially, reportedly providing her with $10,000 monthly for living expenses. In addition, she had access to his credit card, often spending up to $25,000 on clothing and personal items. Payne even funded her shopping trips with his stylist, Adele Cany.
The couple began dating in late 2022 and had recently moved into a $9,950-per-month rental home in Wellington, Florida. However, the luxurious five-bedroom property was put back on the market following Payne's untimely death in October after a fall from a Buenos Aires hotel balcony.
A new chapter for Cassidy
Cassidy was photographed in London earlier this week, appearing somber as she packed her belongings to return to the U.S. A friend close to her shared insights into her financial situation:
Kate has her own income from social media partnerships," the source explained. "She won't have the lifestyle she had with Liam, but she's not destitute. She'll find her way.
Despite the changes, Cassidy reportedly has no plans to make any claims against Payne's estate, citing his 7-year-old son, Bear, as the rightful heir.
Mourning with family and friends
Following Payne's passing, Cassidy flew to the UK to mourn with his family and attended his funeral alongside One Direction members and mutual friends, including Damian Hurley, son of Elizabeth Hurley. Hurley shared a heartfelt tribute to Payne on Instagram, calling him "one of the sweetest men" he had ever met.
Meanwhile, investigations into Payne's death continue in Argentina. Allegations have surfaced against hotel staff for drug involvement, and a close friend has been named a person of interest. Payne's family has since hired an Argentinian lawyer to represent their interests.
Moving forward
Though Cassidy faces significant changes, friends emphasize that her grief is not tied to financial loss. "She's heartbroken over Liam's death. The money doesn't matter in comparison," one source said.
As Cassidy returns to the U.S., she begins a journey of healing and rediscovery, honoring the memory of her late partner while forging a new path forward.