Dermot O'Leary says 'no parent should bury their child' in Liam Payne tribute

This Morning presenter Dermot O'Leary was left emotional as he opened up about the tragic death of One Direction star Liam Payne, who fell from a third-floor hotel balcony in Argentina

On Thursday's episode of This Morning, the programme began with a heartfelt tribute to One Direction star Liam Payne, following the tragic news that the 31 year old had died after falling from a third-floor hotel balcony in Argentina.

After showcasing a snippet of the star's X Factor audition, presenters Ben Shephard and Cat Deeley discussed Liam's legacy with Dermot O'Leary, who got to know Liam through the talent show.

Dermot, visibly moved while discussing the heartbreaking news, shared: "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 sought fame on X Factor at just 14, but it was at 16, when he returned to the show and was placed in One Direction, that he found worldwide success despite the group finishing third in the 2010 competition, reports the Mirror.

Reflecting on that period, Dermot recalled: "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."

The last encounter Dermot had with Liam was at Soccer Aid a few years ago, where he remembered nothing but the late star's kind-hearted nature.

He remarked: "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 the Argentinian authorities have announced they will perform an autopsy and look into the circumstances surrounding his death.

Following the announcement of his passing, fans have been congregating outside the hotel where he died to grieve and honour the star.

Tributes have poured in from numerous celebrities, including Rylan Clark who posted on Twitter: "Extremely sad news. V tragic and so young. RIP Liam x".

The Wanted's Max George also shared: "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".

Piers Morgan added: "Good grief.. what a shocking tragedy."

This Morning continues weekdays on ITv from 10am.