Liam Payne’s unexpected death in late 2024 left fans and loved ones stunned. And, now, it’s confirmed that the $32.2 million Liam Payne estate will go to his 8-year-old son, Bear. 

The One Direction star, who tragically passed away after a fall from a hotel balcony in Argentina, did not leave behind a will, making his only child the sole heir under UK inheritance laws.

Liam Payne’s $32M Estate Goes Entirely to Son Bear, Excluding Girlfriend Kate Cassidy

Because Liam died intestate (without a will), his estate is being distributed according to British law. That means, if there’s no surviving spouse or civil partner, the estate automatically goes to the child. In this case, Liam Payne’s son, Bear, his child with former partner Cheryl Cole, is set to inherit it all.

According to sources, “Everything goes to Bear. Nobody else gets anything.” That includes Payne’s parents, siblings, and even his girlfriend at the time of his death.

Cheryl Cole Named Administrator of the Liam Payne Estate

With no Liam Payne will in place, someone had to take charge of managing his assets. Cheryl Cole, Bear’s mother, has stepped in as the administrator of the Liam Payne estate, along with attorney Richard Mark Bray.

While they’re tasked with overseeing the trust and managing the funds, they currently can’t distribute any of the inheritance just yet, per BBC reports. For now, everything is being held until Bear comes of age.

Cheryl, who first met Payne during his X Factor days in 2010, also handled his private funeral in November 2024. The service was held at St. Mary’s Church in Amersham and was attended by all of his One Direction bandmates.

Will There Be a Kate Cassidy Inheritance?

One name that’s been floating around in the headlines is Kate Cassidy, Liam’s girlfriend at the time of his passing. Despite being in a relationship and recently moving into a home together in Florida, Cassidy will not receive any portion of the Liam Payne inheritance.

Sources say Payne had been financially supporting her, reportedly covering around $35,000 a month in expenses, including a $10K living allowance and lavish shopping sprees with his stylist. Still, none of that translated into a long-term financial arrangement after his death.

There was some speculation that Cassidy hoped to be supported by Liam’s estate – perhaps even have a home purchased for her – but, it wasn’t to be. A close friend noted that, while she’s sad about losing Liam, her grief isn’t rooted in money: “Kate has money of her own… she’s not broke.”

A Father’s Legacy Lives On

While the news of Liam’s passing is still raw for fans and loved ones, knowing that his estate will fully support his young son provides a small sense of closure. The Liam Payne inheritance, now held in trust, ensures Bear’s future is financially secure.

Cheryl called the loss of Liam an “earth-shattering event,” describing him not just as a pop star, but, as a father, a son, a brother, and a friend. Her role now as Cheryl Cole estate administrator will help protect their son’s future.

Though Liam is gone, his legacy – and love for Bear – will live on through the estate he unknowingly left behind.