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Backstreet Boys' AJ McLean bonded with Liam Payne while filming Netflix series, Building The Band, and just a day before his death, McLean had texted Payne as he was concerned for his well-being.
In an interview with the LA Times, AJ opened up about his relationship with Liam, as the two got close working on Building The Band and formed a tight bond over their shared experiences of pursuing a career in the music industry, both in boybands, and then battling substance abuse. McLean explained that he developed a "very older brother" feeling for Liam, but added, "You could tell you were talking to someone who had seen some s***, who had not lived a normal life."
McLean also revealed the text message he sent Payne the day before Liam passed away: "Hey man, are you good?"
AJ just had his three-year sobriety anniversary in September, and explained that during filming of their Netflix show, he didn't think Liam was using drugs, because they spoke "candidly about sobriety, sharing stories and one-upping each other. We could laugh about it all, because if you're still there to talk about it, that means you’re moving in a good direction."
The Backstreet Boys star also told the LA Times, "I can torture my brain about 'Why didn’t he respond?' But I get it. I just hope people remember him the way he was — a massive heart and a massive talent."
Liam died after falling from his hotel balcony in Argentina at just 31 years old. He leaves behind his seven-year-old son Bear, who he shares with ex Cheryl Cole.