Simon Cowell and Amanda Holden arrive at Britain’s Got Talent after Liam Payne’s death postponed auditions
SIMON Cowell and Amanda Holden were seen arriving to film Britain’s Got Talent – after Liam Payne’s death postponed the auditions.
Former X Factor judge Simon famously helped assemble Liam’s band One Direction on the ITV show.
Alongside fellow BGT judge Amanda Holden, the pair were spotted arriving for a day’s auditions in Blackpool.
Simon, 65, wore a dark blue t-shirt, black trousers and sunglasses while he holding a jacket over his arm.
The TV personality also gave a big smile as he did a peace sign to the cameras.
As for Amanda, 53, she opted for a dark black top and held a pair of shoes in her hands.
Troubled One Direction singer Liam plunged 45ft to his death from a third-floor balcony in Buenos Aires.
He died instantly from multiple injuries including a fractured skull caused by his fall.
Simon stepped down from filming BGT in the wake of his friend’s sudden death.
Taking time out to grieve, a source said: “This news has hit Simon incredibly hard – he is utterly shocked and devastated.
“He adored Liam, and was close to his family with whom he is sure to reach out privately.
“He didn’t feel it was right to continue with filming BGT, and when it resumes on Saturday, does not feel he’ll be in the right head space to continue.”
“All the judges and production crew are being hugely supportive.”
After One Direction placed third on The X Factor in 2010, Simon the group to a reported £2m Syco Records contract.
When news of Liam’s death broke in October 2024, Simon wrote an emotional tribute.
It read, in part: “You never really know how you feel about someone until a moment like this happens.
“Liam I am devastated. Heartbroken. And I feel empty. And I want you to know how much love and respect I have for you.
“Every tear I have shed is a memory of you.”