The trailer for Netflix’s new music reality series Building the Band has arrived—and fans of One Direction are feeling the impact. Featuring one of Liam Payne’s final on-screen appearances before his untimely passing in October 2024, the show’s first glimpse dropped on Tuesday, June 24, leaving viewers—and his family—deeply moved.
His sister’s tribute: Grief, pride, and love
Ruth Gibbins, Liam’s sister, shared a raw and heartfelt post on Instagram after watching the trailer. “I wasn’t sure if I should post this,” she wrote, “but it felt wrong not to—after championing Liam’s work for 15 years.” Her message was one of bittersweet pride: “My heart breaks that he didn’t get to see how incredible he is in this. You’re a star, Liam. You always were, and always will be. I felt so many things watching that clip, but mostly—so much pride. I miss you every day.”
A legacy captured on screen
In the trailer, Liam appears composed, reflective, and focused, mentoring contestants who are challenged to form bands without having met each other beforehand. “You’ve got work to do vocally,” he tells them. “But more importantly—I need to feel the connection.”
A final chapter, released with his family’s blessing
Building the Band, which also features Nicole Scherzinger and Kelly Rowland as judges, completed filming just two months before Liam’s passing. With his family’s support, Netflix announced it would go forward with the show’s release—premiering July 9—as a tribute to his voice, his vision, and the presence he brought into every room.
