Brits viewers left in tears during emotional tribute to Liam Payne following tragic death

People have been left 'in tears' after the late Liam Payne was honoured in a touching tribute at this year's Brit Awards.

As musicians from around the world gathered in London's O2 Arena this evening (1 March), an emotional montage was played to remember the One Direction star.

Comedian Jack Whitehall, who was hosting the Brits for the fifth time, introduced the moving segment, hailing the 31-year-old as a 'very special person'.

Take a look at the tribute here:

Payne passed away on 16 October last year after falling from a balcony in the Casa Sur Hotel in Buenos Aires, Argentina.

An inquest confirmed that he died of 'polytrauma', which means multiple injuries to the body and organs.

At tonight's Brits, there wasn't a dry eye in the house as Whitehall hailed Payne as an 'extremely gifted musician' in a poignant speech.

"He achieved so much in the short time he was on this earth and not only is he an extremely gifted musician but an incredibly kind soul, who touched the lives of everyone he came into contact with," the 36-year-old said.

"We have so many amazing memories of Liam here at the Brits, so tonight, we celebrate his legacy and look back and remember the remarkable Liam Payne."

The video montage featured childhood snaps, clips of Payne during his X Factor days and footage of him discussing his love for music, as audio of him singing One Direction's hit 'Little Things' played in the background.

Viewers were left in tears after watching the tribute to Liam Payne at this year's Brit Awards (ITV)

Taking to X to share their thoughts, social media users paid tribute to the pop star and said they were left in tears after watching the tribute.

One said: "Brits know how it's done. RIP Liam Payne."

Another added: "Fully crying at the Liam Payne tribute."

A third commented: "May he continue to be remembered. RIP."

A fourth wrote: "The Liam Payne tribute. I’m crying. RIP Liam."

And a fifth chimed in: "Great tribute to a fantastic musician. That should be still here."

Host Jack Whitehall described the late singer as a 'very special person' (ITV)

Whitehall said he thought it was 'really lovely' that his pal was being honoured at the Brits ahead of the awards show.

"I have lots of really great memories of Liam. He was always game for fun," Whitehall said. "I filmed some sketches with him - not everyone is up for that, but he always made time."

The Brit Awards also paid homage to Payne in the programme books which are handed out to attendees.

The tribute read: "In October 2024, a special member of the BRITs family passed away... Having received seven BRITs with One Direction, and performed twice with the band and twice as a solo artist at the awards over the years, Liam's talent endures through the countless lives he touched.

"He was not just a singer, he was a beacon of light for those who grew up with his work. May his music continue to live on in our hearts."