James Corden has paid an emotional tribute to Manchester as entertainers from around the world mourned the fans killed in a terror attack at an Ariana Grande concert.
Greater Manchester Police said 22 people have died and about another 59 people were injured after an explosion on Monday night.
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One Direction’s Harry Styles, Katy Perry and Taylor Swift were among those offering their support after the attack on the Manchester Arena.
Corden, presenting The Late Late Show, said: “It shocks me every time we hear this sort of news that attacks like this can happen, but especially when there will be so many children at this concert tonight.
“And I’m telling you, a more tight-knit group of people you will be hard pressed to find. Strong, proud, caring people with community at its core.
“And if it was even possible, the spirit of the people of Manchester will grow even stronger this evening. My thoughts and prayers are with the everyone in Manchester tonight.”
He said viewers in the US would have heard of the city for “many wonderful things”, including its two leading football teams and bands such as Oasis and Joy Division.
“It was the birthplace of the leader of the suffragettes. It’s the home of the inventor of the first computer. It’s a place full of comedy and curries and character,” he added.
Many stars chose to pay their respects on social media.
I’m heartbroken over what happened in Manchester tonight.
Sending love to everyone involved. H— Harry Styles. (@Harry_Styles) May 23, 2017
Broken hearted for the families tonight. Broken hearted for Ari. Broken hearted for the state of this world. 😔
— KATY PERRY (@katyperry) May 23, 2017
My thoughts, prayers and tears for all those affected by the Manchester tragedy tonight. I’m sending all my love.
— Taylor Swift (@taylorswift13) May 23, 2017
Comedian Matt Lucas said his thoughts were with everyone affected by the “terrible attack”.
MY PRAYERS GO OUT TO PPL OF MANCHESTER…HAD SPECIAL TIMES THERE FROM YOUTH & BEYOND
— Cher (@cher) May 22, 2017
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KT Tunstall said she had just finished performing in London when she heard the “gut-wrenching” news, and added: “So very sorry for the families who have lost loved ones.”
My heart hurts for my sister, Ariana & every family affected by this tragic event in the U.K. Innocent lives lost. I’m so sorry to hear this
— NICKI MINAJ (@NICKIMINAJ) May 23, 2017
John Legend, who collaborated with Grande on the Beauty And The Beast soundtrack, described the suspected attack as “heartbreaking” when he tweeted his support to fans.
Celine Dion offfered her solidarity with Manchester, tweeting “I am with you”, while Justin Timberlake urged people to “love one another”.
Selena Gomez and Pink both offered their “thoughts and prayers”.
My thoughts and prayers go out to everyone affected in Manchester.
— Selena Gomez (@selenagomez) May 23, 2017
Our prayers and strength to the victims and their families involved in this tragedy. Stay strong. @ArianaGrande 🙏🏼
— Christina Aguilera (@xtina) May 23, 2017
Sending prayers to the people of Manchester. I’m heartbroken for the lives lost and all the families suffering right now
— Reese Witherspoon (@RWitherspoon) May 23, 2017
Justin Bieber tweeted the hashtag “#PrayforManchester” while Styles’ band mate Niall Horan said the incident was “absolutely horrendous”.