GMB's Susanna Reid sends emotional message to Liam Payne's family as Richard Madeley calls fame 'poison'

Good Morning Britain host Susanna Reid sent a heartfelt message to the family of the late Liam Payne. The One Direction star tragically died aged 31 after he fell from a third-floor balcony at a hotel in Buenos Aires, Argentina, last week. As the ITV show returned from its weekend break on Monday 21 October, the conversation inevitably turned back to the tragic event.

Susanna, a mother of two herself, said on Monday's episode: "I want to send all our love to his family. What more can you say? They are in our hearts right now." This came after a discussion between Susanna and co-host Richard Madeley about the cost of fame.

Susanna expressed her shock at the news, noting that many fans believe fame offers some form of protection. However, both presenters agreed it's quite the opposite. Richard continued the conversation, saying to Richard Arnold: "Extreme youth and instant fame can be a real poisoned chalice. You look at, say, a band like the Beatles, and they took their time. They gradually became known locally, then nationally and then internationally and they were in their twenties when they had their first number one. This [fame] happened so fast for these boys [One Direction]."

Their comments followed a wave of tributes from celebrities and fans alike. Liam's heartbroken older sister Ruth has shared a lengthy Instagram post, including an open letter to her late brother, accompanied by a series of photos.

Liam's family, including his dad, mum Karen and sisters Ruth and Nicola, released a heartfelt statement last week following the tragic news. They said: "We are heartbroken. Liam will forever live in our hearts and we'll remember him for his kind, funny and brave soul. We are supporting each other the best we can as a family and ask for privacy and space at this awful time."

Liam was in Buenos Aires when he tragically fell from a third floor balcony in Hotel CasaSur in the Palermo neighbourhood on Wednesday 16 October. The star died of multiple traumas and “internal and external haemorrhage”, a post-mortem examination report said.

Liam's girlfriend Kate Cassidy had been with him in Argentina, but had returned home to Florida days before.

In the wake of the tragedy, scores of devastated fans have gathered outside the hotel to pay their respects to the star.

Liam's father Geoff Payne is in Buenos Aires to arrange the repatriation of the One Direction singer’s body. In devastating pictures, the grieving father is seen reading letters and cards from fans in tribute of Liam.