Liam Payne's posthumous song release plans could have taken attention away from his memorial.
Do No Wrong was set to be released two weeks after his death but Sam Pounds later decided to pull the idea following backlash from fans who demanded "respect" for Payne's family.
Speaking on behalf of Betfred Lotto, celebrity PR specialist Kayley Cornelius said: "This thoughtless plan failed to consider Liam’s loved ones and others affected by his loss. Emotions remain raw for many, and as his family seeks to grieve in peace and prepare for his funeral, this release could have easily overshadowed his memorial and likely caused further emotional distress.
READ MORE: Liam Payne's posthumous single release 'risked placing family at financial loss'
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“Considering how soon this announcement came after his death, it’s highly unlikely that the label reached a mutual agreement with his family to publish this material, or settled crucial issues like licensing rights and the allocation of profits. So if the label were to proceed with releasing this single, it also risks placing his family at a financial loss, which could lead to future legal implications.
Cornelius also explained how best to deal with the intensely sensitive situation: “Communications between the label and Liam’s family appears to be very disjointed and the best course of action going forward is for his former label and family to work collectively to make this project a true celebration of Liam and the talent he had.
"Only time will tell how his family decides to honour his memory, but typically, when a high-profile and beloved star like Liam Payne passes, the family either creates or collaborates with a charity or organisation that shares their values, take the Amy Winehouse Foundation for example. With this in mind, Liam’s family may consider releasing his final work to benefit a cause close to their hearts, turning his legacy into something meaningful.
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