The departure of Zayn Malik from the highly popular English boy band, One Direction, garnered criticisms and praises from basically everyone in the planet. Fans as well as Hollywood have taken to social media their reactions on the singer's decision to leave the widely acclaimed group at the height of their success. One voice, however, has yet to be heard - and that is the reaction of none other than Simon Cowell himself, who has been one of the major forces in both the creation and success of One Direction.
According to BBC News, Cowell admitted that he "knew for a while" that Malik has been contemplating about his "future" and determining whether continuing to be part of the group would be the best choice for him. However, the producer said that Malik's decision to abruptly leave the band while on tour still came "as a bit of a shock." Despite the suddenness of the move, The X Factor judge and producer said that he still needed to take the necessary steps to "look after him [Malik]" as well as the remaining members of the group, namely, Harry Styles, Liam Payne, Niall Horan, and Louis Tomlison.
As for the rest of the One Direction boys, Cowell shared that all of them were "surprised and shocked." For the sake of the fans and the remaining members, however, the ex American Idol judge said that Styles, Payne, Horan, and Tomlison are gradually adapting to the change.
"Interestingly, with the guys [One Direction members], within days, once they got over the shock they were like united, strong," Cowell revealed. "They're being professional and respecting the fans who turned up to see a great show -- and that's what they're doing," he added.
Meanwhile, Cowell described Malik as a "fantastic singer." To achieve success on his solo venture, however, the producer feels that the former boy band member definitely needs to "get his head together a little bit." Referring to Malik's explanation that his decision to leave was prompted by his desire to take some time off, Cowell added, "He needs some time on his own, as he said, to be a normal 22-year-old, which he's gonna have."
With regard the future of One Direction, Cowell only shared that "as long as the boys want it - and I think they do - they'll carry on being as successful as ever." As for Malik, the talent competition judge remarked that the ex One Direction member will attain his goals as well.
