Former X Factor contestant Katie Waissel has called for urgent reforms in the entertainment industry following Liam Payne’s tragic death in October. Waissel, who appeared alongside Payne during the 2010 season of the show, criticized industry professionals for neglecting artists’ mental health and well-being. She claims the industry’s profit-driven approach often comes at the expense of proper care and support for young talent.
Waissel, now an advocate for artist welfare, runs a company called OWHL (Overseeing the Welfare, Human Rights, and Liberty in the Creative Industry). She hopes to raise funds to develop resources that would provide artists with a safe and supportive network. In a heartfelt tribute, she described Payne as a kind, wise soul and expressed frustration that no significant action has been taken to protect artists since his passing.
The X Factor has previously defended its duty of care policies, stating that they provided extensive welfare measures for contestants, including access to psychologists and support teams during and after the show. However, Waissel has publicly shared emails where she felt her mental health struggles were dismissed, further fueling the debate about the industry’s responsibilities toward its talent.
Liam Payne’s death has reignited conversations about the pressures of fame and the importance of mental health support in the entertainment industry. Fans and advocates, like Waissel, are pushing for lasting changes to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
