Zayn Malik quits One Direction

Zayn Malik — one of the five members of the insanely popular boy band One Direction — has officially quit the group. The news was announced on One Direction's official Facebook page.

"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," said Malik in a statement. "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."

In separate statements, the remaining members of One Direction and Simon Cowell (who originally assembled the group) announced that One Direction will continue as a four-member band. "The four of us will now continue," said a statement attributed to One Direction. "We're looking forward to recording the new album and seeing all the fans on the next stage of the world tour."

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The news comes less than a week after Malik left the group's current tour to recuperate from "stress."