Rita Ora has remembered former One Direction singer Liam Payne with a teary tribute at the MTV Europe Music Awards (EMAs) on Sunday (November 10). The singer and actress, who hosted the ceremony in Manchester, fought back the tears on stage as she remembered her close friend.
The two collaborated on the hit song For You, which featured on the Fifty Shades Freed soundtrack, highlighting their musical chemistry and friendship.
"I just want to take a moment to remember someone very, very dear to us," she said on stage. "We lost him recently and he was a big part of the MTV world and my world. Liam Payne was one of the kindest people that I knew."
She added: "He had the biggest heart and was always the first person to offer help in any way that he could. "He brought so much joy to every room he walked into and he left such a mark on the world."
An image of the late singer was then shown on screens in the arena.
News of Liam's death sent shockwaves around the globe and prompted an outpour of emotional tributes.
Among those paying tribute to the star following his death were his fellow bandmates Niall Horan, Louis Tomlinson, Zayn Malik and Harry Styles, as well as his former partner Cheryl, who is the mother of Liam's seven-year-old son, Bear.
Shortly after his death, Liam's family released a joint statement which read: "We are heartbroken. Liam will forever live in our hearts, and we'll remember him for his kind, funny and brave soul.
"We are supporting each other the best we can as a family and ask for privacy and space at this awful time."
Liam died from multiple injuries as well as internal and external bleeding caused by the fall, a post-mortem examination said.
The singer had found fame alongside the four 1D boys when Simon Cowell put them together to form One Direction on ITV talent show The X Factor in 2010.
Liam first auditioned in 2008 when he was 14, singing Frank Sinatra's Fly Me To The Moon, with judge Cowell telling him to return to the talent show two years later.
A Heartfelt Tribute
Rita Ora delivered a heartfelt tribute to Liam Payne at the MTV Europe Music Awards, describing him as someone with "the biggest heart" who was always ready to lend a hand. The former One Direction member died last month at the age of 31 after falling from his hotel balcony in Argentina.
Liam had been holidaying in the country and even attended his old friend Niall Horan's concert with his girlfriend, Kate Cassidy. His devastated friends, family and fans have shared their own emotional tributes on social media, reports the Mirror.
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"And he left such a mark on this world," she added, prompting applause from the audience and encouraging everyone to "take a moment" to remember Liam. The crowd was then moved as One Direction's hit song Night Changes played.
A Lasting Legacy
Liam Payne's death left a void in the hearts of his fans, friends, and family. He will be remembered for his talent, his kindness, and his infectious energy that lit up every room he entered.
His legacy will continue to inspire generations of aspiring musicians and fans around the world.
His impact on the music industry and the world will be felt for years to come, and he will forever be remembered as a true icon who left a lasting impression on the hearts of millions.
Despite the tragic circumstances of his passing, Liam's music and his spirit will live on through his fans and his fellow musicians.
Liam Payne's journey was a testament to his talent, his dedication, and his enduring spirit. The world will never forget the impact he made and the joy he brought to countless lives.
He will always be remembered as a shining star, and his legacy will continue to inspire others to pursue their dreams and to make the world a better place.
