Speaking on stage at the MTV Europe Awards in Manchester, host Rita Ora described Liam Payne as “one of the kindest people” she ever knew. The pair collaborated on For You, a song from the Fifty Shades Freed soundtrack, in 2018.
MTV Awards host Rita Ora paid a poignant tribute to her friend Liam Payne on stage at the ceremony, saying he had the “biggest heart”.
Ora, who duetted with Payne on the song For You from the Fifty Shades Freed soundtrack in 2018, became emotional as she spoke about the One Direction star towards the end of the event.
The 31-year-old singer died after he fell from a third-floor balcony at the Casa Sur Hotel in Buenos Aires, Argentina, on 16 October.
Speaking on stage at the MTV Europe Awards in Manchester, Ora described Payne as “one of the kindest people” she ever knew.
Her voice shaking, the 33-year-old appeared tearful as she addressed the audience.
“I just want to take a moment to remember someone very, very dear to us,” she said. “We lost him recently and he was a big part of the MTV world and my world.”
Payne “had the biggest heart and was always the first person to offer help in any way that he could”, she added. “He brought so much joy to every room he walked into and he left such a mark on the 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.
The star, who is about to resume her record-breaking Eras tour next week, also won the awards for best live act, best US artist and best video for Fortnight, her collaboration with Post Malone. She did not attend the event – instead cheering on her NFL star boyfriend Travis Kelce at his latest game – but gave a recorded speech to accept her prizes.
“I had the best time touring in Europe this summer, so it just is wonderful for you to do this,” she said.
Sabrina Carpenter and Raye among winners
Sabrina Carpenter’s mega hit Espresso was crowned best song, while Ariana Grande was named best pop act and South African star Tyla – one of the night’s performers – picked up the awards for best Afrobeats and best R’n’B.
British singer Raye, who cleaned up at the Brits earlier this year, was named best UK and Ireland act, and also performed her hits Escapism and Body Dysmorphia as her name shone in lights behind her.
Hip-hop star Busta Rhymes received the global icon award before performing a medley of hits including Break Ya Neck, Put My Hands Where Your Eyes Could See, and I Know What You Want.
“I’ve never got an award from MTV before,” he said, as he accepted the trophy from British star Little Simz. “Thirty-four years of professionally recording, this is the first time I’m getting an award from MTV.
“It feels f****** incredible.”