2 weeks Ago By [email protected] (Chloe Govan, Peter Hart)
Our community members are treated to special offers, promotions and adverts from us and our partners. You can check out at any time. More info Simon Cowell has finally broken his silence with a touching Instagram post after the tragic passing of former One Direction star Liam Payne, who died this month at the tender age of 31.
The music mogul had been conspicuously absent from London's Winter Wonderland's VIP launch night, an event he was expected to attend, which occurred just hours after Liam's funeral . Fans speculated that Simon was too grief-stricken to make an appearance, given their close relationship since meeting on The X Factor when Liam was only 14. However, Simon has now shared his feelings in a heartfelt social media update.
"A few weeks ago, [my wife] Lauren and I attended the @prideofbritain Awards ceremony in London," he penned. "It is always such a moving evening, with so many incredible people who have helped others in times of need. I met a very special lady called Aiyla, who is such an amazing character! I have invited Aiyla and her family to come to @bgt so I look forward to catching up with them soon," he continued, posting photos from the event alongside his message.
He concluded with a note of gratitude: "Thank you for all the messages recently, I really appreciate it. Lots coming up so I look forward to updating you all shortly. Love, Simon x", reports the Express .
Liam was laid to rest in a private ceremony on 20 November, a month after his tragic death at just 31 years old. Although the funeral wasn't open to the public, photos emerged from outside St Mary's Church in Amersham, Buckinghamshire, where the service was held. Liam's family and his One Direction bandmates - Harry Styles , Zayn Malik, Louis Tomlinson and Niall Horan - were all in attendance.
His ex-partner Cheryl, who was comforted by Girls Aloud members Nicola Roberts and Kimberley Walsh, also attended with her and Liam's seven year old son Bear , as did Kate Cassidy, Liam's girlfriend at the time of his death. Other notable attendees included Britain's Got Talent judge and creator Simon, as well as Gavin and Stacey star James Corden, JLS singer Marvin Humes and his wife Rochelle, broadcaster Adrian Chiles and footballer Robbie Keane. It is believed that Cheryl played a significant role in planning the funeral alongside Liam's grieving parents, Geoff and Karen Payne.
The order of service urged mourners to donate to children's hospital Great Ormond Street in a touching reminder of Liam's dedication to charitable causes..
