In an emotional interview on the U.K. morning show Lorraine on Wednesday, March 5, the 25-year-old influencer admitted that coming to terms with Payne's death has been incredibly difficult.
"It's really hard to accept," Cassidy said tearfully. "I still talk about him in the present tense ... and I don't even correct myself because that's part of my healing journey. I'm still working on accepting that he's no longer here, so referring to him in the past tense is painful for me."
She continued, growing emotional, "Whenever I do speak about him in the past tense, it stings even more. I never imagined I'd be in a position where I'd have to do that, and it's just really hard to accept."
Cassidy shared that some days are more difficult than others. "Sometimes it's hard for me to even get out of bed in the morning," she admitted. "I have my good days and my tougher days. This is the first time I've lost someone close to me, and navigating grief has been a completely new experience."
Despite the immense pain, she expressed gratitude for the support she's received. "I'm trying to do my best," she said. "I'm surrounded by an amazing support system, which has really helped."
Payne tragically passed away at the age of 31 after falling from a balcony in Buenos Aires on October 16, 2024.
During her appearance on Lorraine, Cassidy also credited her dog, Nala, whom she shared with Payne, for playing a vital role in her healing journey. She explained that taking Nala on daily walks has helped her maintain a routine and improve her mental well-being.
"Even if it's just a short five-minute walk, it wakes me up and refreshes my mind," she shared. "Instead of lying in bed all day, scrolling through social media or looking at old photos, it pushes me to get out, and that really helps my mindset and mental health."
In addition to daily walks, Cassidy has been focusing on self-care. "I'm trying to stay as productive as I can," she said, mentioning yoga and small activities that help improve her headspace. She also expressed deep appreciation for her friends and family.
Reflecting on Payne, Cassidy said, "I'll always have so much love for him. His presence was comforting and warm, and that's something I'll never forget."
Her interview follows her first public comments on Payne's passing last month when she told The Sun that she regretted leaving Argentina, wishing she had stayed by his side.
