X Factor 2016: Simon Cowell comforts Louis Tomlinson off-camera after brave performance
SIMON COWELL has been filmed giving Louis Tomlinson a comforting hug last night after the former One Direction star's heartfelt performance.
Louis Tomlinson was hugged by Simon Cowell on The X Factor stage
Simon embraces Louis Tomlinson after X Factor performance
The popstar had sung his first solo single Just Hold On, a collaboration with Steve Aoki, in tribute to mother Johannah Deakin, who died Wednesday.
After the rendition, Simon gave him some touching words which had viewers nationwide welling up.
But when the programme went to an ad break, an audience member filmed the two coming face-to-face, with Louis Walsh also giving the father-of-one a cuddle.
Harry Styles, Liam Payne and Niall Horan - Louis' bandmates - were all in attendance at the SSE Wembley Arena in a show of solidarity.
Production members took to the stage during the adverts
Louis Walsh also have his support to the singer
What you have just done and the bravery that took, I respect you as an artist and as a person
On air, Simon had said: "Louis, you know what, I have to say something to you.
"What you have just done and the bravery that took, I respect you as an artist and as a person.
"Your mum was so proud of you Louis. She's watching down on you now. She's so proud of you."
Following the performance, Just Hold On has ascended all the way to No1 on the live iTunes chart, eclipsing Louis' former co-star Zayn Malik.
The star's performance sent the song to the top of the iTunes chart
Tonight either Matt Terry or Saara Aalto will win The X Factor, with bookies saying it's all too close to call.
Whoever comes out on top will release their winners' single immediately in the hopes of securing next week's chart-topper.
The X Factor final airs tonight at 8pm on ITV.