In case you woke up this morning and noticed a sizeable chunk of your soul missing – a fifth-sized piece, to be precise – and have somehow managed to go this far in your day without checking social media, it’s because Zayn Malik has left One Direction.

Yes, it happened.

In an official statement on their Facebook page, the Mysterious One™ explained he decided to break our hearts leave the band so he can “be a normal 22-year-old who is able to relax and have some private time out of the spotlight.”

For what it’s worth, 1D will continue to live on – albeit in two different directions. (Sorry.)

So while the world is still in mourning, the same four puns continue to be told (again, sorry), and the wound is still fresh, we decided to scan the internet for the best reactions to this truly life-changing news.

You might not be able to see things clearly right now, but believe me: there is a life after this.

But for now, let’s sit back at watch the world burn.

At first there was anger:

How could he do this?!

Then came the tears:

Lots of tears.

 

So. Many. Tears.

Strange silent tears, even.

Most people aren’t ready to talk about it yet:

It’s still #TooSoon.

Others are demanding answers,

Tweens had to get picked up from school,

And shrines were built.

What a day.

Farewell, sweet Prince.

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