Dermot O'Leary pays tribute to Liam Payne as he says 'no parent should bury their child'

This Morning paid tribute to former X-Factor contestant Liam Payne on Thursday after the singer tragically fell to his death from a hotel balcony in Argentina

In a touching tribute during Thursday's episode of This Morning, ITV took a moment to honour former One Direction member Liam Payne following the tragic news.

The show reported this week that the 31 year old singer had passed away after falling from a third-floor hotel balcony in Argentina.

A segment from Liam Payne's X Factor audition was aired, before presenters Ben Shephard and Cat Deeley turned to Dermot O'Leary for his memories of working with Liam on the popular talent show.

An emotional Dermot shared his heartfelt thoughts: "I just thought of his family, I thought of his son and then I thought of his parents. I mean no parent should have to bury their son or their daughter. Obviously our thoughts and our prayers, our candles are half-lit for his family. That goes without saying."

Liam Payne first captured hearts on X Factor when he was just a teenager. Although initially not selected by the judges at 14, he made a comeback two years later and ultimately became a part of the chart-topping boy band, One Direction, which finished third in the competition in 2010 but went on to achieve worldwide fame, reports the Mirror.

Dermot reflected fondly on the past, remarking: "You get to know the families so well in such a short period of time. His mum and dad were just adorable. They were never pushy, this was very much his dream. He loved, he just loved to sing."

He mentioned the last encounter he had with Liam at Soccer Aid, recalling it warmly and speaking highly of him.

The ITV star added: "He was both wise and sort of a young soul at the exactly same time. He had this old bones about him, like his musical taste.

"Yet, he was always quite beautifully wide-eyed about the world and his place in it. It's such a huge amount of pressure to be put on young shoulders."

Ben Shephard informed ITV viewers that Argentinian officials have confirmed they will carry out an autopsy and investigate the situation surrounding his untimely passing.

Following the announcement of his death, fans have been congregating outside the hotel where he passed away to commemorate the celebrity and show their respects.

Rylan Clark has expressed his condolences on Twitter, saying: "Extremely sad news. V tragic and so young. RIP Liam x".

The Wanted's Max George commented: "Devastated. Liam was an unbelievably supportive during one of the most difficult times in my life. I will never forget that. My thoughts are with his family, friends and fans at this horrendous time. Rest in peace Liam. Max x"

With Piers Morgan adding: "Good grief.. what a shocking tragedy."

This Morning continues weekdays on ITV from 10am.