Zayn Leaves, Fans Lose It

By now you've probably heard the news that Zayn Malik has decided to leave One Direction and, well, go in another direction. The news was announced on Wednesday that the singer would be leaving his bandmates, who will continue on as a four-piece group. In a statement released via 1D's Facebook, Malik told fans,

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.

Of course, regardless of how Malik worded his statement, or the fact that One Direction will continue touring and recording without him, it was of little comfort to the heartbroken fans. Many of them took to Twitter to air their grievances about the announcement, and things we're predictably intense.