At the 2024 MTV Europe Music Awards, which featured notable wins from Taylor Swift and Tyla, Rita Ora delivered a moving tribute to Liam Payne on Sunday evening.

The British singer, who acted as the host for the event held in Manchester, England, led a remembrance for the late One Direction star, who tragically passed away last month after a fall from a hotel balcony in Buenos Aires at the age of 31.

“He was a significant part of both the MTV community and my personal life, as well as many of yours at home and everyone here tonight,” Ora stated, her emotions clearly visible, recalling their collaboration on the 2018 track “For You.”

This heartfelt moment moved Ora to tears. “He brought joy to every place he visited and made a lasting impact on this world,” she continued.

Earlier, Ora honored Payne with a poignant performance of “For You” during a concert on October 17, just after his passing. That day, she expressed her grief on stage, stating, “I can’t even sing this right now.”

This event marks the return of the EMAs after last year’s ceremony in Paris was canceled due to the outbreak of war in Gaza, where Israeli forces are engaged in conflict with Hamas.

Taylor Swift and Tyla shine as top winners at MTV Europe Music Awards

Swift, who led the nominations with seven, won four awards: best artist, best video for her collaboration with Post Malone titled “Fortnight,” best live performance, and best U.S. act. She thanked her fans through a video message while on the final leg of her Eras Tour.

“It’s unbelievable that you have celebrated the tour and everything that has happened with the album this year and the video,” stated Swift, who released her album “The Tortured Poets Department” in April.

South African artist Tyla followed with three awards: best Afrobeats, best R&B, and best African act.

Other notable winners included Sabrina Carpenter, who took home best song for her hit “Espresso.” Ariana Grande received the best pop award, while Eminem secured the best hip-hop category.

BTS member Jimin won best K-pop, and Peso Pluma earned the best Latin act award. Liam Gallagher from Oasis took the best rock title, and pop-rock artist Benson Boone was named best new act.

Additionally, the legendary Busta Rhymes was honored with the global icon award after performing a medley of his hits, and British duo Pet Shop Boys received the pop pioneer award, closing out the show.