Simon Cowell pictured back at work just three months after Liam Payne’s death
Simon Cowell has returned to the Britain’s Got Talent auditions just three months after the death of Liam Payne
The record executive, who helped to create One Direction in 2010, was spotted alongside fellow judges Amanda Holden, Alesha Dixon, and Bruno Tonioli. The auditions had been put on hold following Liam’s death in October.
The singer died aged 31 after falling from a hotel’s third floor balcony in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Following Liam’s death, it was reported that Simon took a break from his BGT duties, with Bruno temporarily replacing him.
The upcoming series will also feature YouTuber KSI as a guest judge, filling in for Bruno in select episodes. Simon had previously expressed his heartbreak over Liam’s death and was seen being comforted by the star’s parents at his funeral.
On his return to work, Simon opted for a casual outfit. He wore a navy T-shirt and smart black pants, carrying a black puffer coat over his arms. Simon wore a pair of sunglasses and a long scarf. The TV personality smiled for the cameras and gave a thumbs up before going on his way.
Upon learning of Liam’s death, Simon wrote a heartfelt message, stating, “You never really know how you feel about someone until a moment like this happens. Liam, I am devastated. Heartbroken. And I feel empty. And I want you to know how much love and respect I have for you. Every tear I have shed is a memory of you.”
He continued, “This is so difficult to put into words right now. I went outside today, and I thought about so many times we had together. I wanted to let you know what I would always say to the thousands of people who would always ask me. What is Liam like? And I would tell them you were kind, funny, sweet, thoughtful, talented, humble, focused. And how much you loved music. And how much love you genuinely had for the fans.”