They were the photos they thought had been lost in the depths of the internet forever.
But we've managed to unearth some embarrassing childhood snaps of One Direction's Harry Styles, Louis Tomlinson and Niall Horan which they uploaded to social networking sites back in the day.
The pictures - which the boys posted on their Bebo and Myspace accounts during the noughties - show the lads in their teenage years before they hit the big time.
Louis can be seen enjoying a spot of underage drinking, posing with his top off, taking pictures of himself in the mirror (ooh, very arty) and grabbing the boob of his then girlfriend Bethany - let's hope new gf Eleanor Calder doesn't get wind of these, then.
Quick profile fact: He lists James Morrison and Akon among his favourite artists and had his own band called The Rogues.
Little Harry (who we can confirm has always been adorable) is pictured on holiday with his parents but minus those now trademark curls.
Quick profile fact: Hazza admits to enjoying a bit of Corrie and would most like to meet Superman - this has obviously now changed to Kim Kardashian.
Meanwhile Niall is also seen drinking cider, playing in the snow, dressed up as a soldier and supporting his footy team.
Quick profile fact: He lists his favourite song as being Baby by Justin Bieber, and his email adress was da_pimp_is_here__@hotmail.com - we're guessing he's not using that one any more though.
If all these snaps have left you wanting a little bit more Direction in your life, then why not check out the pics of the boys on their road to world domination below.