James Corden 'utterly heartbroken' as he pays tribute to 'kind soul' Liam Payne

The One Direction star appeared as a guest on The Late Late Show With James Corden in 2020, with the former chat show host posting an emotional tribute to the late singer, who died on Wednesday

Gavin and Stacey star James Corden has paid tribute to "kind soul" Liam Payne, after the singer's tragic death at the age of 31.

Corden is one of many celebrities to speak out after the One Direction star was reported to have fallen from a third floor balcony of a Buenos Aires hotel.

Former chat show host James posted on Instagram about Liam, writing: "Talking about Liam in the past tense is utterly heartbreaking. He was such a loving and kind soul. I will treasure the moments I got to spend with him. My thoughts are with his family today x." Liam had appeared on The Late Late Show as a guest with Corden in 2020, and also took part in his Carpool Karaoke segment.

Other stars have shared their condolences, including Rita Ora, who was friends with Liam, and also collaborated with him musically. The pair released a duet in 2018, For You, which was recorded for the film Fifty Shades Freed. Just hours after the news of Liam's horrific death broke, Rita took to the stage in Osaka, Japan where she paid tribute to her friend.

While performing the song, a picture of Rita and Liam was displayed behind her as she tried to get through the lyrics of their song. In a heartbreaking moment, Rita was seen holding her head in her hands as she turned away from the crowd. She looked up and confessed: "I can't even sing this right now." For You was one of Liam's two songs as a solo artists that reached the top 10 in the UK official charts.

Meanwhile, fellow X Factor star Rebecca Ferguson, who came runner up on the series, took to social media to share her thoughts.

She wrote: "It's always a hotel room! We both met at Euston station and shared the taxi together to X Factor. I can't help but think of that boy who was hopeful and looking forward to his bright future ahead. If he hadn't jumped on that train and jumped in that taxi I believe he would be alive today."

Rebecca added: "Rest in peace Liam, I hope you find peace on the other side and love to your mum and family x." The singer added that she hopes Liam finds "peace on the other side", before sending her love to the star's mum and family.

Former X Factor star Katie Waissel, who also appeared on the 2010 series, has hit out at X Factor boss Simon Cowell following Liam's death. Shortly after his death was confirmed, Katie wrote: "My heart is completely torn to shreds right now, I am at an absolute loss for words. If Simon Cowell dare put a statement out on the heart wrenching, tragic loss of my dear and darling friend Liam, he would be a fool. We all know the truth… and I’ll be sure it all comes out."

Moments later, she then released another statement criticising the music industry as a whole. She said: "Liam was kind, with a pure heart, a sharp mind, and the wisdom of an old soul. His warmth and compassion left a lasting impact on everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. His tragic passing not only leaves an irreplaceable void in the hearts of those who loved him but also serves as a painful reminder of the systemic neglect that persists in the industry."

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