In a moment that has sent shockwaves through the global fan community, former One Direction members Zayn Malik and Louis Tomlinson have been photographed together for the first time in years, confirming they are collaborating on a major new Netflix project. The sighting, which took place in New Orleans, marks a significant step in healing the rift that has existed since the band's split a decade ago.
A Decade-Long Wait for a Reunion
The images and videos, captured by fans and shared widely on social media platforms like TikTok, show the two musicians filming scenes for an upcoming Netflix docuseries. This project is reported to be a road trip show travelling across the United States. The spontaneous fan footage captured the pair's easy chemistry, with one observer noting, "The way they moved their heads and waved at the same time… STILL IN SYNC AFTER ALL THESE YEARS." Another fan humorously pointed out the irony of their attempt to be discreet, commenting on their "MOST conspicuous vehicle."
This public reunion is one of the very few times Zayn and Louis have been seen together in nearly a decade. The last known occasion was the emotionally charged funeral of their bandmate Liam Payne in November 2024. The iconic boyband, formed on The X Factor in 2010, consisted of Malik, Tomlinson, Harry Styles, Niall Horan, and Payne. After Zayn's departure in 2015, the remaining four entered an indefinite hiatus in 2016, which has persisted until now.
Louis Tomlinson's Candid Thoughts on a Full Band Reunion
Despite the excitement generated by this two-man project, hopes for a full-scale One Direction reunion have been tempered by Louis Tomlinson's own recent words. In an interview with Rolling Stone UK in October, he reflected on the profound impact of Liam Payne's passing. "Before Liam passed, I kind of always had it in the back of my mind. Like, 'I'm sure we'll do something, even if it's just one big show,'" Tomlinson said. "But now I'd be really surprised. I also kind of love that the last time that we were on stage together, Liam was there. That's just so perfect."
The Netflix series, therefore, is likely to serve as a poignant tribute and a space for reflection rather than a precursor to a classic band comeback. A TV insider told The Sun that the show will combine personal reflections and behind-the-scenes stories from their whirlwind years in the world's biggest pop band. "It's likely to be a chance for some serious soul-searching and deep discussions about the incredible journey the group have already been on," the source added.
New Beginnings: Music, Netflix, and Personal Milestones
The filming coincides with a period of significant personal and professional development for Louis Tomlinson. Insiders suggest that the tragedy of losing Liam has encouraged Louis to "not waste any time" in his personal life. Sources close to the singer indicate he may be preparing to propose to his girlfriend, former Love Island star Zara McDermott, whom he has been dating for around ten months. A source described them as "blissfully in love," hinting that wedding bells could soon be ringing.
With this major Netflix show in production, ongoing solo music projects, and a potential engagement on the horizon, Louis Tomlinson is undoubtedly entering one of his most personal and public chapters yet. For Zayn Malik, this collaboration marks a rare return to a shared project with his former bandmate, offering fans an unprecedented glimpse into their current relationship and past experiences.
The new Netflix series is expected to premiere in summer 2026, fittingly marking ten years since One Direction's initial hiatus. It is poised to be a monumental event for the band's devoted global fanbase, offering a long-awaited, intimate look at two key members of a group that defined a generation of pop music.
