Netflix’s “Building the Band” paid tribute to Liam Payne during episode 1. Payne, who died at age 31 in October 2024, posthumously appears as a judge on the reality competition series. At the start of the premiere episode, host AJ McLean acknowledged Payne’s death.

The 10-part musical competition show “Building the Band” was released by Netflix on Wednesday after the streaming giant says Payne’s family was consulted and is “supportive of his inclusion.” Host AJ Mclean dedicated the entire series to Payne and his family.

Liam Payne’s memory lives on in “Building the Band.” The late One Direction singer makes his final television appearance in the new Netflix singing competition — and fans are tuning in to see his last moments on screen.