Today marks the 10th anniversary that one of the biggest boybands of all time, One Direction, were formed on ITV singing contest The X Factor.
The five-piece - Harry Styles, Niall Horan, Zayn Malik, Louis Tomlinson and Liam Payne - finished second on the show but went on to enjoy unprecedented success worldwide, winning over 200 awards and selling in excess of 50 million records.
The group went on an indefinite hiatus in early 2016 but have taken to social media today to acknowledge the significance of the date.
See what they had to say below!
Harry Styles
"I've been struggling to put into words how grateful I am for everything that's happened over the last ten years. I've seen things and places that I'd only ever dreamt of when I was growing up. I've had the pleasure of meeting and working with some of the most incredible people, and gained friendships that I know I will treasure for the rest of my life. None of this would be possible without the support you've given along the way. And for that, I will be forever thankful.
"I just can't believe it's been ten years. Thank you to our crew, our team, and everyone else who helped us along the way. To all the fans, I love you, and I thank you with all my heart. You did it all, and you changed everything.
And finally.. to the boys, I love you so much, and I couldn't be prouder of everything we achieved together. Here's to ten. H"
Niall Horan
"when I met these four gents there was no way I thought we would go on to do what we did. So many unbelievable memories we shared together. We felt the adoration of millions from around the planet on a daily basis and it was mind blowing. It's such a major part of our lives and always will be. Cheers to US today boys and thank you to all you beautiful people who have supported us over the last 10 years. @liampayne @harrystyles @zayn @louist91 ❤️ #10yearsofonedirection"
Liam Payne
"What a journey... I had no idea what we were in for when I sent this text to my Dad ten years ago at this exact time the band was formed. Thanks to everyone that's supported us over the years and thanks to the boys for sharing this with me #10YearsOfOneDirection"
Louis Tomlinson
"Our first ever photo together. The memories we've shared together have been incredible. Can't believe its been 10 years already. I look back incredibly proud. Thanks for everything lads and love to you the fans as always x"
Syco supremo Simon Cowell
"Today is a very special day. I was lucky enough to meet five guys. Who were so much fun. So talented. It feels like 10 minutes ago. And you made it happen."
The fifth member of the band, Zayn Malik, quit several months before their hiatus in 2016 and seemingly did not acknowledge the anniversary of the group that propelled him to stardom on any of his public-facing social media accounts.
