Kate Cassidy marked what would have been Liam Payne’s 32nd birthday with a heartfelt gesture: baking a cake in his memory.
The 26-year-old influencer shared an Instagram reel on Friday that showed her mixing ingredients, baking the cake, decorating it, and finally enjoying a slice with her dog by her side. She appeared makeup-free in the video, dressed casually in a white tank top and sweatpants, her blonde hair tied back in a ponytail.
Set to the sad tune of Mazzy Star’s “Fade Into You,” Cassidy captioned the clip: “happy birthday Liam, I know you still have the sweetest tooth in heaven. I tried my best here but it’s the thought that counts 🙂 enjoy !”
In a separate Instagram post, Cassidy shared a video montage of memories from her time with the former One Direction star. The footage captured Payne in happier moments — dancing, laughing, and running along a beach. She wrote alongside the montage: “8.29.93. A special day for the most special soul. I miss you so much. Happy Birthday Liam. I wish we could celebrate together. In the next life I guess❤️.”
Cassidy also took to her Instagram Story to share a moment that felt especially symbolic: while shopping at Whole Foods, she noticed the woman in front of her buying a large batch of cupcakes — something she took as a sign connected to Payne’s memory.
This year marks the first birthday since Payne’s tragic death on October 16, 2024, at the age of 31. The singer died after falling from the third-floor balcony of his room at the CasaSur Palermo Hotel in Argentina. Toxicology reports later revealed drugs in his system, and several individuals are reportedly facing criminal charges related to the incident.
Cassidy had been traveling with Payne in the weeks leading up to his death but left two days prior. A friend told The Post at the time that she returned home because she “wanted to be home with her dog.” According to reports, Payne had begged her to stay and began exhibiting “erratic” behavior after she left.
In the days following his passing, Cassidy shared a heartfelt message: “Nothing about the past few days have felt real. I ask and pray that you’ll give me the grace and space to navigate this in private.
“Liam, my angel. You are everything. I want you to know I loved you unconditionally and completely. I will continue to love you for the rest of my life. I love you Liam.”