When Zayn Malik announced that he was leaving One Direction, fans young and old around the world were distraught. Some famous kids who may be shedding a tear or two are Jamie Oliver's children, with the chef revealing that his brood are big fans.
The TV personality, who is currently in Australia with work, threatened that he might have to return to the UK to console his children, who are aged between four and 13.
"I'm going to have to go home, my kids are going to be in bits!" said Jamie, speaking to Dan and Maz on 2DayFM. "They've got life sized cardboard cut outs of them."
© Photo: Getty ImagesJamie Oliver said his children have life sized cardboard cut outs of One Direction
The radio hosts followed up their interview with a post on Twitter, tweeting "Eeeeeep! We just had to break the news to @jamieoliver that @zaynmalik has left #OneDirection. His household will be so sad!" followed by crying face emoticons.
While the response to Zayn's announcement has been mixed, one star who applauded the dark-haired heart-throb was Amanda Holden.
Speaking on This Morning, Amanda said: "I know so many people are devastated, but I actually think it's a massively brave decision, really courageous and the right decision. He's made money, he's sensible enough at 22 to get out before he burns… and I just applaud him. And for the 1D fans, if you love somebody you let them go."
© Photo: Getty ImagesJools and Jamie Oliver have four kids aged between four and 13
Soon after the unexpected news was published online, Zayn's name immediately trended on Twitter, with his legions of fans expressing their shock.
According to data analysts TheySay, Zayn could possibly claim to have broken the internet. A whopping 3.3 million tweets were posted on the micro-blogging site about the former One Direction band member, with 69 per cent of fans supporting his decision to quit.
© Photo: Getty ImagesZayn Malik said that he was leaving the band to be "a normal 22-year-old" with a private life
"My life with One Direction has been more than I could ever have imagined," wrote Zayn in his statement. "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."
