Simon Cowell steps back from BGT as he takes break after Liam Payne's death
The music mogul put together One Direction alongside his fellow X Factor judges in 2010.
Simon Cowell has reportedly stepped back from filming Britain’s Got Talent this weekend in the wake of Liam Payne’s death.
The former One Direction star died on Wednesday 16th October after falling off a balcony on the third floor of a hotel in Buenos Aires, Argentina, prompting a wave of tributes from across the showbiz world.
Cowell, who put together One Direction alongside his fellow X Factor judges in 2010, halted production on Britain’s Got Talent yesterday after news broke of Payne's death.
Filming will resume on Saturday with Alesha Dixon, Amanda Holden, KSI and Tonioli on the panel while Cowell grieves the singer's death, according to The Sun.
RadioTimes.com has contacted ITV for any further comment.
Payne was described as a “kind, funny and brave soul” in a tribute from his former One Direction bandmates.
In a statement signed by Louis Tomlinson, Zayn Malik, Niall Horan and Harry Styles, they said: “We’re completely devastated by the news of Liam’s passing.
“In time, and when everyone is able to, there will be more to say. But for now, we will take some time to grieve and process the loss of our brother, who we loved dearly.
“The memories we shared with him will be treasured forever.
“For now, our thoughts are with his family, his friends and the fans who loved him alongside us. We will miss him terribly. We love you Liam.”
Read more:
- Remembering Liam Payne: Singer's X Factor journey from first audition to One Direction fame
- Liam Payne tributes: Liam Gallagher, Harry Styles's mum and more react to singer's death
Britain's Got Talent will return in 2025 on ITV1 and ITVX.
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