It’s sad, but true. Zayn Malik, one of the five members of One Direction, has decided to leave the spotlight of the mega-popular boy band.
According to a statement from the band, Zayn said, “My life with One Direction has been more than I could ever have imagined. But, after five years, I feel like it is now the right time for me to leave the band. I’d like to apologize to the fans if I’ve let anyone down, but I have to do what feels right.”
In an article from Rolling Stone, Zayn added in the statement, “I am leaving because I want to be a normal 22-year-old who is able to relax and have some private time out of the spotlight. I know I have four friends for life in Louis, Liam, Harry and Niall. I know they will continue to be the best band in the world.”
The turn of events started last week when two photos went viral of Zayn and another woman: one picture with his hand around her waist and another with their hands and arms linked. Accusations came out shortly after about Zayn possibly cheating on his well-known girlfriend, Perrie Edwards, from Little Mix. He then left the tour to go back to the UK after signing off because of stress.
Allegations from HollywoodLife say that Perrie “was furious about the pictures of him holding hands with an attractive blonde fan, and delivered an ultimatum to leave the tour and fix their relationship.” She also allegedly told Zayn: “Get home if you want to sort this mess out, or we’re done.”
The members of the band as well as Zayn’s family are concerned for him. Telling People.com that “Zayn is exhausted and just needs a break. Out of everyone of the boys, he’s the one who struggles dealing with being in the spotlight the most. He can’t cope with the level of scrutiny he gets put under. He’s just 22. He’s going to stay with family in England who are really concerned.”
But, no matter what, fans will still love One Direction and Zayn…how could you not fall for those cute little accents and smiles that the five of them have! (Especially Niall’s Irish accent…)
