Rita Ora, the host of the 2024 MTV Europe Music Awards, found herself holding back tears as she delivered an emotional tribute to her friend, Liam Payne.
Sharing heartfelt words about the One Direction star, Ora, who hosted the show for the third time, described the singer as having “the biggest heart.” The beauty became visibly emotional as she delivered her speech, remembering Payne, who died last month after falling from a balcony in Buenos Aires.
Ora had a close relationship with the singer and the pair recorded a song together in 2018, “For You (Fifty Shades Freed).” She addressed the audience saying, “I want to take a moment to remember someone. Liam Payne was one of the kindest people I knew.” Her voice broke as she asked the crowd to take a moment to remember Liam saying, “He had the biggest heart and he left such a mark on this world.”
The tribute took place near the end of a ceremony which saw Taylor Swift crowned Best Artist – making her the first act to claim the award three times. Swift dominated the ceremony, taking home four awards: Best Artist, Best U.S. Act, Best Live Act, and Best Video for ‘Fortnight’, her collaboration with Post Malone.
Although she was across the Atlantic finishing up her acclaimed Eras tour, Swift appeared via video message to thank her fans for their unwavering support.
In a new development regarding the tragic death of the former One Direction star, Argentine authorities have officially ruled out suicide as the cause of his death. Following an extensive investigation into Payne’s fatal fall, prosecutors confirmed there was no evidence of self-harm or external intervention, deadline reported.
However, the investigation has taken a more complex turn with toxicology reports indicating the presence of multiple substances in Payne’s system at the time of the incident. It was also reported that, prior to the fall, hotel staff had contacted the police about a man displaying “aggressive” behaviour, believed to be under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
As the investigation continues, three individuals face charges in connection with Payne’s death, though no arrests have been made.
