Liam Payne and Cheryl Cole first met in 2008 when Payne auditioned for the X Factor at the age of 14. Cole was one of the judges on the show at that time, and although Payne didn’t make it through, he returned two years later as a member of One Direction. Despite knowing each other during those early years, their romantic connection didn’t start until nearly a decade later. They were first linked in 2016 after Cole’s split from her ex-husband, and the following year they welcomed their son Bear. In July 2018, Payne and Cole announced their split but remained amicable as they coparented their son.
In his initial X Factor audition in 2008, Payne sang “Fly Me to the Moon” and winked at Cole, who praised his talent and called him “really cute.” He returned to the show in 2010, this time as part of the successful boyband, One Direction. The couple reunited at the X Factor finale in December 2015, where they shared a hug on stage. Rumors of their relationship began swirling in February 2016, just a month after Cole filed for divorce. They made their red carpet debut as a couple at the Global Gift Gala in Paris in May 2016, where Cole was honored with an award.
After one year of dating, Cole and Payne announced the arrival of their son Bear in March 2017. Both parents shared their excitement and love for their new addition on social media. Despite their split in July 2018, Cole expressed how they were successfully coparenting and ensuring Bear’s happiness through their separation. Payne also shared his experiences of parenthood and described the joy and challenges of raising Bear. They continued to be supportive of each other as they navigated their roles as coparents.
In December 2019, Payne revealed that he was spending the holidays with Cole and Bear, despite moving on with Maya Henry. He expressed his desire to have a traditional Christmas with his son and ex-girlfriend, highlighting the importance of family and normalcy in their lives. In March 2020, Payne penned a heartfelt tribute to Cole on Mother’s Day, thanking her for being an amazing mother to Bear. In July 2023, Payne spoke candidly about the support he received from Cole and his son during a difficult period of his life, emphasizing the importance of their presence in his healing journey and their role in his life.
Despite their relationship coming to an end in 2018, Liam Payne and Cheryl Cole continued to prioritize their son Bear and maintained an amicable co-parenting dynamic. Their journey from the X Factor auditions to parenthood showcased their growth as individuals and their commitment to their family. Through tributes, public statements, and shared moments with their son, Payne and Cole displayed a strong bond and dedication to parenting despite the challenges of their romantic relationship. Their story serves as a reminder of the complexities and joys of parenthood, and the importance of putting the well-being of their child first.
