Simon Cowell returns to TV and makes emotional tribute after Liam Payne's tragic death

Simon Cowell has made his television comeback following the tragic demise of Liam Payne.

The former One Direction member, aged 31, tragically died last week after a fall from a hotel balcony. Suffering multiple injuries, Liam's passing was attributed to "an internal and external haemorrhage".

Simon, who first encountered Liam during his initial audition for the X Factor at just 14, paused BGT auditions in light of the devastating news.

He expressed his heartbreak through a statement, conveying he was "devastated" by Liam's death. Taking to Instagram with an emotional message, the renowned music impresario shared that he is "heartbroken" and feeling "empty" after the loss.

Simon returned to television screens on Thursday (October 24), making an appearance at the pre-recorded Pride of Britain Awards. This year marked the 25th ceremony, once again hosted by Carol Vorderman and Ashley Banjo, who have been presenting the heartfelt celebration since 1999 and 2021, respectively, reports the Express.

At the event, which honours some of the most heroic individuals of the nation for their incredible contributions in 2024, Simon delivered the Child of Courage award to Aiyla Mota. Aiyla faced the amputation of her legs and fingers due to severe sepsis that nearly claimed her life last year.

Initially suffering from what seemed to be just a sore throat, Aiyla's condition quickly escalated to abdominal pains and respiratory issues. A harrowing rush to Accident and Emergency led to the discovery of organ failure resulting from the sepsis.

After spending three months in hospital, a brave little girl was discharged just before her fourth birthday, returning to her "cheeky, sassy" self, according to her mum Eulanda. She has taken to mainstream school with enthusiasm and delights in activities such as gymnastics, horse-riding, ice skating, and bowling. Mum Eulanda joyfully remarked: "Sepsis and Strep A haven't stolen her love for life."

The young girl's accomplishments didn't stop there; she also received an award and had the opportunity to visit the set of Britain's Got Talent where she enjoyed sitting in Simon Cowell's chair and pressing his buzzer.

In a heartfelt moment, Simon Cowell commended his late friend and former Mirror Editor Peter Willis, who tragically passed away at the age of 54. Peter was fondly remembered at the ceremony as a pioneering spirit behind the pride of the nation via the Pride of Britain Awards.

Simon reflected on Peter's enduring legacy at the event: "Peter had an idea 25 years, 26 years [ago] probably, to create what he called the People's Awards Ceremony, and this was his passion... he cared."

He fondly recounted their past interactions: "You never said no to Peter, by the way. When you got 'the call', it was 'I'm coming'. And I always remember the years I would come, just before I'd get up if I was going to introduce someone, he would tell me about their story."

Simon remarked: "He cared so passionately about the people who got the awards, and looking around today, Peter, this is still, in my opinion, the most important awards show of the year. As always, you meet the most incredible people because I always thought of this show as extraordinary people with extraordinary stories."

During his speech at the Central London event, the industry titan addressed those gathered with the words: "You're going to leave feeling humbled. Peter's legacy lives on... a tribute to a man I had huge respect for."