‘I’m stressed out’ Zayn Malik admits he has very little faith in himself

The vast majority of record labels and music execs adhere to a tried and tested formula when it comes to boy band members.

From the cheeky chappy to the uber-cute one, most members know their role, and for former One Direction member, Zayn Malik, he was most definitely the silent, brooding type.

But it sounds like his 1D persona had less to do with the time-honoured formula, and more to do with his own inner dialogue.

Speaking to Elle, the Bradford-native, who left the band in March 2015, admitted that he struggles desperately with low self esteem and anxiety.

"I don’t have it in me to feel secure in anything I do," he admitted. "I always strive towards something better."

Aware that he often comes across more reserved that one might expect of a former boy band member and up-and-coming solo star, Zayn explained: "It’s why I sometimes come across the wrong way – a bit distant."

The singer, who was forced to cancel his performance at Capital's Summertime Ball due to anxiety, added: "I’m stressed out trying to control how I’m perceived.”

With a nod to his former bandmate Harry's foray into the world of acting, Zayn told the publication that music once took a backseat when it came to his interest in the theatre.

"I started acting when I was in school with theatre studies and then music came afterwards," he explained. "The acting completely stopped because I joined the band, but I'd definitely be interested if I was given the right part."

Ooh, watch this space!