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The 2024 MTV Europe Music Awards was a night filled with showstopping performances, unexpected winners, and emotional moments. However, one of the most poignant highlights came when host Rita Ora took a moment to honor the life and legacy of Liam Payne, the former One Direction superstar who tragically passed away last month at just 31 years old.
As the star-studded crowd at Manchester’s Co-op Live venue looked on, Ora spoke about her deep connection to Payne and the incredible impact he had on the music world and beyond. “We lost him recently, and he was a big part of the MTV world and my world, and I think a lot of yours at home, and everybody in here tonight,” the singer told the audience.
Ora, who collaborated with Payne on the 2018 smash “For You” from the Fifty Shades Freed soundtrack, reminisced about her fellow artist’s kindness and generosity. “He had the biggest heart and was always the first person to offer help in any way that he could.”
Fighting back tears, the EMA host continued to pay tribute to Payne’s warm spirit and positive influence. “He brought so much joy to every room he walked into, and he left such a mark on this world,” Ora said, her voice cracking with emotion. “So, let’s just take a moment to remember our friend Liam.
The ceremony then aired a solemn memorial package featuring photos of the late star alongside a snippet of One Direction’s poignant 2014 ballad “Night Changes” – a fitting soundtrack for mourning Payne’s life cut far too short.
