Zayn Malik Joins One Direction Band Mates After Absence Sparks Drug Abuse Accusations
One Direction fans were worried when Zayn Malik missed the band's appearance on the "Today" show, and many were concerned when he was photographed on Tuesday looking noticeably thinner. Malik was said to be ill with a "tummy bug" and missed out on some of One Direction's album promotion in Orlando, Florida this week.
On top of his illness, Malik also had to defend himself against drug abuse remarks made about him by 'Today' host Matt Lauer. During One Direction's appearance on the show, Lauer asked them if Malik's absence was related to drugs.
"There's obviously a lot of concern, a lot of fans have been tweeting overnight. Is it something more serious? There have been rumors of substance abuse. What's going on?" Lauer asked.
Get Our Latest News for FREE
Liam Payne replied, "No, he's just got a stomach bug. He's okay. He's just at home. He just needs to rest."
Malik was obviously not happy with Lauer's line of questioning.
"I'm really angry and upset by what was said on the Today show. I was really ill at the weekend. That's why I couldn't fly to America," he told The Sun.
While filming for the upcoming holiday special for NBC, an eyewitness for Hollywood Life says that the other One Direction members were very supportive and caring of Malik.
"Liam was seen rubbing Zayn's back to make him feel better," said the eyewitness. "Niall was also hugging Zayn onstage, in between takes."
On Thursday, Malik was able to join his band mates for an appearance at Jimmy Kimmel Live in Hollywood. The band will also be featured on the Ellen DeGeneres show in an interview which will be aired on Friday.
