One Direction fans were set into a flap last night amid the Us Weekly claims that the band weren't just going on an extended break from March onwards, rather it was a more permanent split.
A source speaking via the magazine said: "The 1D thing just ran its course. They’ll remain friends, but they are exhausted and want solo careers. Liam is really interested in songwriting and production. Harry is launching a career in acting and singing'." As for Louis and Niall, the former is about to become a first time father, and Niall wants to travel the world incognito (quite possibly with Hozier and Ed Sheeran. That's what the internet wants to think, anyway). The source also claims they never bothered renewing their recording contract.
All is not lost, however. A rep for the band had this to reply via MallOnline: "The story is fabrication and speculation. One Direction have clarified the situation on numerous occasions now."
Heres some refreshing new rumours that One Direction have 'split for good' just for a change https://t.co/7yLiVTvcX0 pic.twitter.com/LNXMfIpR7W
— Sugarscape (@sugarscape) January 14, 2016