Zayn Malik leaves One Direction

Zayn Malik has announced he is leaving One Direction to lead a ''normal'' life out of the spotlight after flying home from the band's world tour due to stress last week.
The 'Kiss You' hitmaker has announced he has officially quit the band to lead a ''normal'' life out of the spotlight after leaving the group's world tour last week due to stress.
He said 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 remaining members - Liam Payne, Louis Tomlinson, Niall Horan and Harry Styles - have assured fans his departure won't mean the end of the band and they will continue with their world tour and to record their fifth studio album.
They said: ''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.''
Music Mogul Simon Cowell - who discovered One Direction on his ITV show 'The X Factor' in 2010 and signed them to his label SyCo records - has also wished the 22-year-old singer all the best for the future.
He 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.''