Rita Ora Holds Back Tears in Moving Tribute to Liam Payne at EMAs

Rita Ora struggled to hold back tears as she paid tribute to her late friend Liam Payne at the MTV European Music Awards on Sunday. The singer-songwriter, who hosted the event in Manchester, England, took a heartfelt moment on stage to remember Payne, who tragically passed away in mid-October after falling from a hotel balcony.

During a break in the show, Ora addressed the audience and highlighted the deep personal and professional connection she shared with Payne. “The team behind the EMAs just wanted to take a minute to remember Liam … a great friend to MTV and to me personally,” she said, visibly choked up. Ora described him as one of the kindest souls she had ever met, noting that they had considered many ways to honor him but decided that speaking directly to the camera would be the most heartfelt approach.

Rita praised Payne’s positive spirit and asked everyone in attendance to take a moment to reflect on the friend they had lost too soon. The raw emotion in her voice underscored the depth of their bond, especially considering how the news of his passing has rocked the music community.

Just days after Payne’s death, Ora had an emotional breakdown during a performance, unable to get through a song they had collaborated on. The audience had to help her finish, showcasing how deeply affected she was by the loss.

Liam Payne passed away after falling from his hotel balcony in mid-October. Authorities have ruled out suicide, though toxicology reports indicated the presence of drugs in his system, including “pink cocaine” and “cristal.” The investigation led to three people being charged in connection with his death, one of whom is a hotel employee accused of supplying the drugs.

Rita’s tribute was a poignant reminder of the life and light Payne brought to those who knew him, leaving fans and friends alike to remember him for his warm heart and positive presence.