Simon Cowell comforted by Liam Payne's parents at late One Direction star's funeral

X-Facor judge Simon Cowell received the comfort of Liam Payne's mum and dad at the late star's funeral.

The singer died aged 31 on October 16 after a tragic fall from a hotel balcony in Buenos Aires, Argentina. His devastated dad Geoff flew out to the country and brought his son's body home two weeks ago so he could be laid to rest in the UK.

Liam's loved ones said their final goodbye to the singer at an intimate service today, Wednesday, November 20. Simon Cowell, who helped to form One Direction back in 2010, attended the funeral in the Home Counties with his fiancée Lauren Silverman and was consoled by Liam's dad Geoff and mum Karen as they both placed an arm on his back outside the church, reports the Mirror.

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Simon, who wore a full black suit to the funeral, posted a tribute to Liam on social media following his tragic death. It read: "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.

"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."

Simon himself also consoled fellow mourners at the funeral following the service. An onlooker explained: "Liam's former One Direction bandmates stood shoulder to shoulder, their grief clear, as they exchanged quiet words and comforting embraces. Simon Cowell, his face still etched with sorrow, was seen consoling Liam’s friend and family, offering no doubt heartfelt words amid the shared pain."

Liam's former One Direction bandmates Harry Styles, Louis Tomlinson, Niall Horan, and Zayn Malik attended the service. Other celebs paying their respects to Liam, including Kimberly Walsh, Nicola Roberts, Robbie Keane, Marvin Humes and his wife Rochelle.

Liam's girlfriend Kate Cassidy also attended his funeral with the support of Damien Hurley. The pair had been dating for two years.

Cheryl Tweedy was seen arriving at the funeral. Speaking after Liam's death, Cheryl said she will "make sure" her son Bear knows all about his late dad Liam. The Girls Aloud star was in a high-profile relationship with Liam between 2016 and 2018. She said in a devastating statement on Instagram their son has to “face the reality of never seeing his father again”.

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