Gotta be you, Zayn! One Direction fans were devastated to learn on Wednesday, March 25, that singer Zayn Malik is leaving the boy band.
"My life with One Direction has been more than I could ever have imagined," Malik, 22, said in a statement posted to the group's official Facebook page. "But, after five years, I feel like it is now the right time for me to leave the band."
The four remaining members, Niall Horan, Liam Payne, Harry Styles, and Louis Tomlinson, supported Malik in a group statement, adding, "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."
While One Direction faithfuls expressed their grief, shock, and dismay over Malik's exit on social media, some celebrities and even brands used the chart-topping performer's decision to leave as an opportunity for a little comic relief. Multiple stars, including Kaskade and Peter Sagal, volunteered themselves for the Brit's spot, while Denny's diner offered its restaurants as a haven for mourning Directioners.
Read the funniest reactions below!
BRB getting dancing/singing audition tape ready for @onedirection
— Kaskade (@kaskade) March 25, 2015
we are here for you, directioners, in your time of mourning; prepared to make you all the comfort food you need after this inzayn news.
— Denny's (@DennysDiner) March 25, 2015
Pleased and excited to announce I'll be joining One Direction, as the Husky One.
— Peter Sagal (@petersagal) March 25, 2015
I know the words and the moves lads. #justsaying @onedirection
— Danny Mac (@dannymaconline) March 25, 2015
Who do I send my resume to to apply for the opening in One Direction?
— Kevin McHale (@druidDUDE) March 25, 2015
Zayn Malik to be replaced by Mayim Bialik
— Jocelyn Plums (@FilthyRichmond) March 25, 2015
Zayn Malik left One Direction! Oh no! He has nothing left now except living the rest of his days as the most beautiful man on earth.
— Kumail Nanjiani (@kumailn) March 25, 2015
what if zaynfeld still in 1D
— Seinfeld Current Day (@Seinfeld2000) March 25, 2015
#NeverForget pic.twitter.com/LVtA6ohffl
— Ellie Hall (@ellievhall) March 25, 2015
Ow, never thought it'd hurt so bad Getting over you http://t.co/a3Qp3RgSCh pic.twitter.com/hz9vHwhJ4R
— The New York Times (@nytimes) March 25, 2015