Louis Tomlinson has once again found himself at the center of the "Larry" conspiracy theories, this time due to a fleeting interaction on Instagram. On June 29, 2025, the singer liked a fan-made video that romantically linked him with his former One Direction bandmate, Harry Styles. The video, an emotional edit set to the song "Die With a Smile," quickly caught the attention of eagle-eyed fans. However, the excitement was short-lived, as Tomlinson unliked the video just a few hours later.
This simple act of liking and unliking sent the One Direction fandom into a frenzy, reigniting the long-standing "Larry Stylinson" theories. The "Larry" conspiracy, which has persisted for years, suggests that Tomlinson and Styles share a romantic relationship that has been hidden from the public. Theories range from elaborate explanations involving management contracts and forced relationships to simpler ideas about genuine affection.
Theories exploded across social media platforms as soon as fans noticed the unliking, with many speculating about the possible reasons behind it. Some fans wondered if it was an accidental like, a momentary lapse in judgment, or perhaps even a joke. Others interpreted it as a sign that Tomlinson still keeps tabs on fan edits related to him and Styles. Conversely, some believe that the unliking was a deliberate attempt to shut down the rumors and put the speculation to rest.
This isn't the first time that Tomlinson has addressed the "Larry" rumors. In April 2024, he spoke with a Brazilian news outlet, G1, and expressed his irritation with the constant speculation. He stated that there was nothing he could do to stop people from inventing what they wanted to invent. He also noted that the rumors sometimes become "far too personal," especially considering he has a young son, Freddie. While Tomlinson has acknowledged the fans' right to believe what they want, he has also expressed his desire for privacy and respect, especially concerning his family.
The recent Instagram incident highlights the intense scrutiny that Tomlinson faces online. Every online action is dissected and analyzed for hidden meanings or clues about his relationship with Styles. Some fans believe that the constant attention is unwarranted and that Tomlinson should be allowed to use social media without fear of misinterpretation. Others argue that as a public figure, such attention is inevitable.
As of now, Tomlinson has not publicly commented on the "like" and "unlike" incident. This silence has only fueled further speculation and debate among fans. Regardless of the reason behind the interaction, it's clear that the "Larry" conspiracy theory remains a powerful force within the One Direction fandom. The incident serves as a reminder of the parasocial relationships that can develop between fans and celebrities, and the impact that even small online actions can have on dedicated fanbases.