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Is Harry Going Solo? From a solo album to a major movie role, J-14 investigates rumors of a One Direction breakup!

When Harry Styles arrived at Los Angeles International Airport on May 1, carrying a brown bag over his right shoulder, a purplish phone in the left pocket of his jeans, and his grey shoes loosely tied, one thing was missing—his bandmates. For the first time since One Direction achieved international fame, one of the members had flown solo to L.A., sparking rumors that Harry was exploring other career options, including the possibility of leaving One Direction for a solo career.

Harry was all smiles stepping off the plane at LAX without the rest of 1D, fueling speculation of a band breakup.

Early Performances

Growing up, Harry always loved performing. He wore his sister's grey tights to play a mouse in a school production of Barney and dressed as Buzz Lightyear for Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. Singing Elvis Presley songs on a karaoke machine gifted by his grandfather was a favorite pastime with his cousins.

However, it wasn’t until eighth grade that music became his true passion. That year, he made a new friend, Will, who asked him to join a band.

"I was really nervous," Harry says of those early days. "I’d only ever sung to myself in the shower or the car. I knew I could carry a note, but I didn’t know how well I’d do in front of others."

Harry’s natural talent quickly shone. He won school competitions and became the lead singer of White Eskimo, performing at local weddings. "I loved being on stage, and I wanted to do it more and more," he recalls.

Solo Ambitions?

Harry had always thought about auditioning for The X Factor as a soloist, but he didn’t consider himself a solo artist. However, his mother, Anne Cox, saw his potential and took action.

"My mum filled out the application form and sent it off for me," Harry says. "I’m so grateful she did."

While Harry earned early praise as a soloist on The X Factor, he found his true calling as part of a group.

"The best moment for me was when we were told we’d be put in a band together," Harry says. "I remember thinking, ‘This is going to be a lot of fun.’"

Stronger as a Group

When rumors surfaced that Harry had flown to L.A. for secret meetings about a solo album—or to play a young Mick Jagger in a movie about The Rolling Stones—his mother stepped in to clarify.

"What a load of rubbish," Anne tweeted.

The truth? "Harry was on vacation in L.A.," his representative confirmed.

Harry brushed off the rumors, knowing he’s happiest as part of One Direction. "Very early on, we realized that this was the best thing for all of us. We’re stronger as a group," Harry told J-14. "We can take on whatever is thrown at us—together."

Rumors: Fact or Fiction?

RUMOR: He punched a photographer! A story claimed Harry punched a photographer at the Men in Black 3 premiere. Harry set the record straight: "I definitely didn’t punch anybody," he told J-14. FALSE

RUMOR: He’s dating Taylor Swift! After Taylor Swift was spotted enjoying One Direction’s performance at the Kids’ Choice Awards, rumors swirled about a romance. "We met," Harry says. "She’s very nice and very talented. We’re friends." FALSE

RUMOR: Harry died in a car crash! A fake story circulated online about Harry’s death in a car crash on Route 80. Thankfully, it was entirely untrue. FALSE

Harry’s #1 Girl? His Mom!

Despite being linked to various women, from Caroline Flack to music video co-star Emma Ostilly, Harry’s top priority is his mom, Anne.

"My mom and I have always been close," Harry says.

Whether texting or tweeting sweet messages, Harry ensures his mom knows she’s his number one.