Roman Kemp battled to hold back tears as he gave an emotional tribute to singer Liam Payne on the One Show.
TV presenter Roman was visibly shaken as he struggled through his live appearance. Kicking off the show on BBC yesterday evening, he delivered a heartfelt statement after the bombshell of Liam’s passing.
The beloved One Direction sensation tragically plummeted from the third story of a hotel block in Buenos Aires, Argentina on Wednesday night.
READ MORE: Liam Payne’s final hours – ‘erratic’ behaviour, smashed-up room and frantic 911 call
READ MORE: Liam Payne’s chilling 911 call before death in full as hotel staff worried ‘life at risk’
(Image: Dave Benett/Getty Images for Annabel’s)
Officials swarmed the site with cops, fire crews, and emergency vehicles crowding around the hotel after news spread of Liam’s harrowing fall.
Hotel authorities had raised the alarm, prompting police intervention. Reports suggest that Liam took a fatal tumble from the third level, sustaining catastrophic injuries.
During the One Show, anchor Alex initiated proceedings with the solemn announcement: “Before we start the show, we want to pay tribute to Liam Payne, the former One Direction star, who sadly died last night. We have had so many messages from fans.”
She then recited tributes, full of heartache over Liam’s untimely demise.
Alex commented further: “Liam obviously has been on the show many, many times but of course Roman, as you know, you knew him well.”
Holding back emotion, Roman shared: “Yeah, I mean, he is a friend of mine and it is so surreal talking about it now. It doesn’t feel right. All I can say is that he had so much talent as a young man and was someone who was so loved by so many people.”
He continued: “The main thing as well about Liam is that, and I don’t know if people really know this, but behind the camera he was so kind – to everyone. He always just wanted to put a smile on people’s faces. I was absolutely devastated obviously. All of our thoughts are with his family and friends at this very tough time.”
Following the tragic turn of events, Liam’s heartbroken family came forward. Through a statement given by his spokeswoman, they expressed their grief: “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.”
Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
