Kaylah Walton
The estate of the late Liam Payne, a former member of One Direction, is currently embroiled in a significant legal and ethical dispute.
Reports indicate that a Rolex watch, purportedly belonging to the pop star, is being offered for sale on the black market, even though his 8-year-old son, Bear, is the only legal heir to his estimated $32.2 million estate.
A watch collector disclosed that a reputable Rolex dealer had presented a watch associated with Payne. Valued at around $60,000, this watch allegedly includes an authenticity card and a serial number linked to Payne. The dealer claimed the item was given to them by someone close to the singer, who mentioned it had been passed down “in a will.”
However, Payne passed away without leaving a will after an accident at a hotel in Buenos Aires in October 2024. His estate is currently overseen by his former partner, Cheryl Tweedy, who is the mother of his son, Bear, and has been appointed by a UK court.
Cheryl Tweedy Responds
Insiders have confirmed that Tweedy was not involved in the watch’s attempted sale and did not give permission for any personal items to be transferred. The seller’s identity remains unverified, although conjecture surrounds Payne’s close friends.
“This situation poses serious legal and emotional issues,” an insider remarked.
“These assets belong to Bear, and it is Cheryl’s duty to safeguard them. If this watch is sold without proper authorization, it could lead to significant legal disputes.”
It is not confirmed whether the Rolex in question is the same one Payne was said to be wearing when he died—a watch that was unaccounted for at the hotel. Toxicology results indicated his system contained cocaine, benzodiazepines, and crack at the time of the incident.
Under UK intestacy law, without a will, Payne’s estate automatically goes to his son Bear. Although Bear can access the funds at age 18, reports suggest that Cheryl Tweedy plans to limit access until he is at least 25 to help him make “informed decisions” about the inheritance.
“Cheryl wants Bear to cultivate ambition and not be overshadowed by his wealth,” a source commented to The Sun.
“She is also mindful of those who might exploit him due to his circumstances.”
The funds are projected to be invested and gradually released as Bear approaches his late 20s and early 30s.
As authorities probe the watch’s sale, it underscores the potential risks of mismanaging assets in notable estates. Legal experts emphasize that without a will, no one—friends or associates—has the right to distribute or profit from a deceased person’s belongings.
“What’s transpiring is not just legally ambiguous—it’s profoundly unethical,” stated an insider.
“Anyone selling his assets for personal advantage is infringing upon his son’s legal rights.”
Reports indicate that police have investigated various locations associated with individuals involved in supplying drugs to Payne, as well as escorts who were present during his final moments.
