More than 65,000 people have signed a petition calling for new legislation, known as ‘Liam’s Law,’ to protect the mental health of artists in the music industry following the death of Liam Payne.
The former One Direction star fell from the third floor of a hotel in the Argentinian capital of Buenos Aires last Wednesday evening before medics confirmed his death.
It was revealed by The Daily Mail hours later that Liam had been dropped by the record label days.
The proposed law would mandate regular mental health check-ups, sufficient rest periods and the availability of mental health professionals on set, as well as ongoing support throughout an artist’s career.
The petition, launched anonymously on October 18 by a fan named Day KV on Change.org, states: ‘The entertainment industry must be held accountable and take responsibility for the well-being of its artists.
‘Resultant issues such as stress, anxiety, depression, substance misuse and even suicide are alarmingly high.
‘According to research, performers are 2-3 times more likely to suffer from these issues compared to the general population.’
More than 65,000 people have signed a petition calling for new legislation, known as ‘Liam’s Law,’ to protect the mental health of artists in the music industry following the death of Liam Payne (Pictured: One of Payne’s final selfies in Buenos Aires)
The former One Direction star fell from the third floor of a hotel in the Argentinian capital of Buenos Aires last Wednesday evening before medics confirmed his death
‘Such a law would necessitate regular mental health check-ups, adequate rest periods, and the presence of mental health professionals on-set, including any ongoing support during their career.
‘It will ensure a healthier, safer, and more conducive working environment for artists to cultivate their talents reducing psychological distress.
‘This would also include early interventions to protect and minimise before it’s too late. It adds: ‘Your signature could be a lifeline for these talented individuals, contributing to a larger movement of mental health awareness and care in industries worldwide.
‘Please, sign the petition.’
Liam Payne, the former One Direction star, fell from the third floor of a hotel in the Argentinian capital of Buenos Aires last Wednesday evening before medics confirmed his death.
Since the 31-year-old’s death, tributes from his friends, family, and former bandmates, including Harry Styles, Niall Horan, Louis Tomlinson and Zayn, have poured in.
Universal Music Group posted an image of Liam Payne on Instagram saying they were ‘devastated’ about his death
Payne plunged from the third floor into the courtyard of the Casa Sur Hotel (file image)
The proposed law would mandate regular mental health check-ups, sufficient rest periods and the availability of mental health professionals on set, as well as ongoing support throughout an artist’s career
Celebrities such as Cheryl, Bruce Springsteen, Rebecca Ferguson and Robbie Williams have also voiced concerns over the pressures artists face in the entertainment industry.
His label Universal Music Group tribute said: ‘We are devastated by the tragic passing of Liam Payne.’
‘His legacy will live on through his music and the countless fans he inspired and who adored him. We send our deepest condolences to Liam’s family and loved ones.’
Originally signed to Sony as part of One Direction, Liam penned a deal with Capitol Records, a label owned by Universal, in July 2016 when he launched his solo career at just 22 years old.
Liam was said to have been ‘thrilled’ when he signed to Capitol in what was understood to have been a very lucrative deal.