Zayn Malik and his fabulous four British boy band cohorts are now heading in different directions. If you know what we’re driving at.
We’re saying dude up and quit One Direction.
In stunning news that has left millions of young women lost amidst a sea of sadness and confusion, the group announced today via Facebook that Malik is no longer a member.
"After five incredible years Zayn Malik has decided to leave One Direction," the band writes.
"Niall, Harry, Liam and Louis will continue as a four-piece and look forward to the forthcoming concerts of their world tour and recording their fifth album, due to be released later this year."
Back in November, Malik missed a One Direction Today Show appearance, prompting Matt Lauer to ask whether the singer was on drugs.
Just a few days ago, meanwhile, Zayn left the One Direction tour, citing stress, but immediately prompting rumors that much bigger problems were at hand.
He faced rumors of cheating on Perrie Edwards, his longtime love and fiancee, and had clearly grown sick of the chatter and innuendo that come along with fame.
"My life with One Direction has been more than I could ever have imagined," Malik said in his own statement confirming his departure.
"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 my heart."
"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."
Concludes One Direction on Facebook:
We’re really sad to see Zayn go, but we totally respect his decision and send him all our love for the future.
The past five years have been beyond amazing, we’ve gone through so much together, so we will always be friends. The four of us will now continue.
We’re looking forward to recording the new album and seeing all the fans on the next stage of the world tour.