Wednesday, March 25, 2015 12:57pm ET by  
Comments (0)

, , , , , , , , , ,

Zayn Malik leaves One Direction: 'I want time out of the spotlight'

Zayn Malik has quit One Direction.

The singer, who left the band's current world tour last week due to stress, wants to spend more time out of the "spotlight".

The British-Irish hitmakers will now continue as a quartet, with a new album planned.

He said today (March 25) in a statement: "My life with One Direction has been more than I could ever have imagined.

"But, after five years, I feel like it is now the right time for me to leave the band. I'd like to apologise to the fans if I've let anyone down, but I have to do what feels right in my heart.

"I am leaving because I want to be a normal 22-year-old who is able to relax and have some private time out of the spotlight. I know I have four friends for life in Louis, Liam, Harry and Niall. I know they will continue to be the best band in the world."

The band added: "We're really sad to see Zayn go, but we totally respect his decision and send him all our love for the future.

"The past five years have been beyond amazing, we've gone through so much together, so we will always be friends. The four of us will now continue. We're looking forward to recording the new album and seeing all the fans on the next stage of the world tour."

Label boss Simon Cowell said: "I would like to say thank you to Zayn for everything he has done for One Direction. Since I first met Zayn in 2010, I have grown very, very fond - and immensely proud - of him. I have seen him grow in confidence and I am truly sorry to see him leave.

"As for One Direction, fans can rest assured that Niall, Liam, Harry and Louis are hugely excited about the future of the band."

The group's Facebook page meanwhile wrote: "After five incredible years Zayn Malik has decided to leave One Direction.

"Niall, Harry, Liam and Louis will continue as a four-piece and look forward to the forthcoming concerts of their world tour and recording their fifth album, due to be released later this year."

Malik joined One Direction when they were pieced together on the UK X Factor in 2010.

In the past year the singer has been collaborating with British producer Naughty Boy.

Follow us: @Pressparty on Twitter Pressparty on Facebook.

Watch 1D in action below: