Following People report that One Direction would be going on an "extended hiatus" starting in March, the band took to Twitter to assure fans the split was temporary.

Ok so Lots of rumours going round. We are not splitting up, but we will be taking a well earned break at some point next year
— Niall Horan (@NiallOfficial) August 24, 2015

ðŸŽ¶ Don't worry ðŸŽ¶
— Louis Tomlinson (@Louis_Tomlinson) August 24, 2015

Thank you so much for everything you have done for us it's been the most amazing five years and there's so much more to come
— Liam (@Real_Liam_Payne) August 25, 2015

Meanwhile, the U.K.'s Daily Mirror speculated that Harry Styles would nab a solo deal shortly into the break, citing a "Sony insider" who expressed the company's natural inkling to ink him.

The lads' next SYCO/Columbia album is due in November, with current single "Drag Me Down" now blowing up; People says the foursome will continue to promote the set through February.

The story immediately ignited speculation about whether the band would be splitting up for good, though some observers recalled the marketing brilliance of another "four solo projects" hiatus.

Rumors that Styles was fostering a solo career began to proliferate after the departure of Zayn Malik from the group last March.

Meanwhile, Joey Fatone had some sober advice for the group.