One Direction member Louis Tomlinson and fans react to Liam Payne tribute at 2025 BRIT Awards

The 2025 BRIT Awards delivered a deeply emotional tribute to Liam Payne, leaving viewers in tears as a heartfelt video montage played during the ceremony.

The One Direction star, who tragically passed away at the age of 31 on October 16, 2024, after falling from a hotel balcony in Buenos Aires, Argentina, was remembered for his remarkable contribution to music.

Presenter Jack Whitehall introduced the segment, saying, “We have so many amazing memories of Liam here at the BRITs, so tonight we celebrate his legacy, look back, and remember the remarkable Liam Payne.”

As One Direction’s "Little Things" played in the background, the montage featured career highlights, behind-the-scenes moments, and personal memories, bringing fans and fellow artists to tears.

Alongside the tribute, the BRIT Awards programme included a touching dedication, describing Liam as a beacon of light whose music and presence inspired millions.

The tribute message read, “The BRIT Awards are dedicated to recognising the influential figures who have shaped music’s past, present, and future. In doing so, we reflect on the achievements of those who are no longer with us and extend our profound condolences to their friends and families. In October 2024, a special member of The BRITs family passed away, leaving behind a legacy that will forever resonate in the hearts of millions.”

It continued, “While Liam Payne’s time in One Direction brought him global fame, it was his undeniable talent, dedication, and charisma that made him an icon in the world of music. His contributions helped define the sound of a generation, with songs that remain as timeless as the bond he shared with his bandmates.”

The tribute also acknowledged Liam’s solo career, highlighting hits such as "Strip That Down" and "For You" featuring Rita Ora, as well as his dedication to his fans, whom he had connected with since first auditioning for The X Factor in 2008.

Louis Tomlinson, Payne’s former bandmate and close friend, took to X (formerly Twitter) to express his gratitude, writing, “Thank you @BRITS. Beautiful tribute. Miss you always brother x.”

Fans also commended the BRITs for putting together a fitting tribute for the singer.

Liam Payne was a seven-time BRIT Award winner with One Direction, having performed twice with the band and twice as a solo artist at the event. The tribute reaffirmed his lasting influence on the music industry, with organisers urging fans to continue celebrating the music he created and the lives he touched.