Former Britain’s Got Talent finalist and chart-topping singer Calum Scott has opened up in an emotional interview following the tragic death of fellow UK artist Liam Payne. The *Dancing On My Own* singer, who recently surpassed one billion career streams in the UK, described the moment as a “wake-up call” for the entire music industry and spoke candidly about his own mental health struggles.
Speaking with raw honesty, Scott reflected on the pressures of fame, sharing that during the peak of his own rise, he experienced debilitating panic attacks and anxiety. “There were days I didn’t know if I could go on stage,” he revealed. “Everyone saw the polished performance, but no one saw the breakdowns behind the scenes.”
Scott’s comments come in the wake of Payne’s unexpected death, which has sent shockwaves through the music world and triggered renewed conversations about the emotional toll of celebrity. Once a beloved member of One Direction, Payne had publicly shared his own mental health battles in recent years — something Scott said resonated deeply with him.
“What happened to Liam shouldn’t have happened,” Scott said quietly. “It’s devastating. He was brave in speaking out, and we should’ve listened harder. The industry needs to protect its people, not just promote them.”
Scott emphasized that artists — especially those who find fame quickly — often lack the support systems needed to cope with the mental and emotional demands of the job. “You’re thrust into the spotlight and expected to perform, to smile, to deliver. But inside, you can be falling apart.”
The singer called for major changes within the industry, including mental health education, mandatory wellness programs for rising stars, and open conversations about the emotional cost of fame. “Success shouldn’t come at the cost of someone’s life,” he said. “We owe it to Liam, and to so many others, to do better.”
Calum Scott’s words have struck a chord with fans and fellow musicians alike, with many praising his vulnerability and courage. As tributes to Liam Payne continue to pour in from around the globe, Scott hopes the tragedy becomes a turning point — not just for reflection, but for lasting change.
“I’ll carry Liam’s memory with me every time I step on stage,” he said. “He was more than a star. He was human. And he deserved to be protected.”
