Roman Kemp issues tribute to Liam Payne
Roman Kemp delivered a heartfelt homage to Liam Payne on BBC's The One Show, labelling his death as "surreal".
The popular evening show resumed on Thursday with Roman and co-host Alex Jones steering the broadcast. However, before diving into the night's agenda, the pair took a moment to address the tragic passing of ex-One Direction member Liam.
Liam, aged 31, tragically plummeted from a third-floor hotel balcony in Buenos Aires, Argentina, at 5.07pm on Wednesday. Reflecting on the sombre news, Alex initiated the tribute, stating: "But before we start the show, we also want to pay tributes to Liam Payne, the former One Direction star who sadly died last night. We have had so many messages from fans."
Alex proceeded to share some of the heartfelt messages received by The One Show but then invited Roman, who was close to the singer, to express his feelings. Roman remarked: "Yeah, he was a friend of mine, and it's so surreal talking about it."
He added: "Even now, it doesn't feel right. All I can say is he had so much talent as a young man and someone that was so loved by so many people," reports Wales Online.
"Actually, what really stood out about Liam was how kind he was off-camera, always aiming to bring joy to everyone," Roman noted.
Concluding, he shared: "So yeah, I was absolutely devastated, obviously, and all of our thoughts are with his family and friends at this tough time."
Following the poignant tribute, a viewer took to social media platform X to express their condolences, saying "R.I.P. Liam, so very sad." Another viewer commented, "Roman looks absolutely shattered. Bless him."
In the wake of his passing, fans have been congregating outside the hotel where he died to pay their respects and mourn the star.
Numerous celebrities have also paid tribute, including Rylan Clark, who tweeted: "Extremely sad news. V tragic and so young. RIP Liam x".
The Wanted's Max George also shared his condolences, writing: "Devastated. Liam was an unbelievably supportive during one of the most difficult times in my life. I will never forget that. My thoughts are with his family, friends and fans at this horrendous time. Rest in peace, Liam. Max x". (sic)
A post-mortem examination revealed that Liam's cause of death was multiple trauma injuries and internal bleeding.
The One Show airs weekdays at 7pm on BBC One.
