Since officially quitting One Direction in March, Zayn Malik has kept a low profile. But on Friday the 22-year-old made his first public appearance, attending the Asian Awards in London - showing off a new look and bringing along his mum as his date.
© Photo: Getty ImagesZayn Malik and his mum Trisha Malik pose for pictures at the Asian Awards
Sporting newly-shorn hair, and a new nose stud, Zayn looked smart and stylish in crisp navy suit and tie. The former One Direction heart-throb looked happy and couldn't keep the smile off his face as he walked the red carpet with his mum, Trisha, by his side.
Zayn's fans lined the red carpet, and went crazy when the superstar arrived, but they weren't left disappointed as the singer was more than happy to pose for pictures and sign autographs.
Zayn left One Direction fans heartbroken when he quit the band in March
Zayn confirmed he was leaving the chart-topping band on 25 March, leaving fans around the globe devastated by the news. Zayn said: "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."
It wasn’t only the fans' hearts that broke when Zayn made his decision, as One Direction member Liam Payne admitted that the loss of their friend from the lineup left the remaining four members "gutted", telling The Sun: "It's been a tough few weeks, probably the toughest since the band was formed five years ago."
© Photo: Getty ImagesZayn attended the 5th Annual Asian Awards which honour achievements across 14 categories
In his statement, Zayn added: "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."
But despite this, Zayn has recently been in the recording studio with his good friend, music producer Naughty Boy, who it is thought Zayn is working with on solo material.
