A moving montage was paid to stars who have died at the event

Alan Carr and Amanda Holden hosted the Royal Variety Performance(Image: ITV)

Viewers of the Royal Variety Performance were in tears after the programme paid tribute to Liam Payne. Amanda Holden and Alan Carr fronted the 2024 edition of the iconic event at the Albert Hall.

Stephen Mulhern, Sophie Ellis Bextor and Penn & Teller were among the performers in the star-studded line-up. However, the most emotional moment of the night was reserved for the segment in which it paid tribute to the stars and performers who have died this year.

The montage of famous faces included iconic figures such as Bernard Hill, Jonnie Irwin, Steve Wright and Dame Maggie Smith. An instrumental version of Story of My Life by One Direction played over the moving montage, which paid tribute to the stars who have left such an incredible legacy.

Viewers following the show were heartbroken by the choice of music as the final face on the montage was Liam Payne, who co-wrote the song. Ollie said: “I knew they’d put Liam on last in the obits. Some of those stung a bit.”

ICERRIE added: “Liam Payne appearing at the end of the tribute sent me again. Cruel world.” Liv posted, alongside a tearful emoji: “Seeing Liam pop up at the end with that version of story of my life playing he should still be here.”

Sophie added: “Can’t believe they used story of my life and whacked Liam Payne on the end – ouch” Ryan added: “Story of my Life is making me emotional. Liam Payne’s death was devastating.”

The tribute to Liam Payne ended the montage to those we have sadly lost this year at the Royal Variety(Image: ITV)

Aoife posted, alongside a crying gif: “Me: watching the royal variety in memoriam loving the beautiful rendition of story of my life. Also me: realising why it’s the chosen song.”

Chloe said: “Not the story of my life instrumental and then putting Liam Payne at the end.” Maisy said:” Shakes you up when you see those who have passed, and those gone far too soon. Live life to the full folks.”

RiRio added: “A gentle reminder that no one lives forever and we are all the same.” Nicola posted: “So sad loads of great entertainment people have gone to the stars xxx rest in paradise xx.” Jonathan added: “We really have lost a lot of great people this year.”

UKTV Extra added: “Lost far too many young celebrities way too soon.” Rosie posted: “Still can’t get over Liam.” The One Direction star died aged 31 on October 16 after he fell from the third floor of a hotel balcony in Buenos Aires.

Liam’s One Direction bandmates released a statement shortly after he died and said they were devastated by his death. 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. – Louis, Zayn, Niall and Harry. (sic)”