UK

Manchester attack: Ariana Grande ‘broken’ and ‘so so sorry’

Singers, actors and entertainers around the world react to the death of at least 22 killed at concert

Emergency services at Manchester Arena after an explosion at the venue during an Ariana Grande gig. Photograph: PA

Tue May 23 2017 - 10:36

Singer Ariana Grande, whose concert at the Manchester Arena was targeted in an attack on Monday night, has joined other celebrities and politicians in expressing horror at the events.

At least 22 people were killed and more than 60 injured after an explosion in or around the foyer area that left thousands of people fleeing.

Grande, who was not hurt in the blast, tweeted that she was “broken” by news of casualties.

The a 23-year-old US singer is popular with children and teenagers.

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The rapper Nicki Minaj, a friend of Grande whose vocals are included on her reggae-pop song Side to Side, wrote: "My heart hurts for my sister, Ariana & every family affected by this tragic event in the UK. Innocent lives lost. I'm so sorry to hear this."

James Corden paid an emotional tribute on his US TV show as stars from around the world mourned fans at an Ariana Grande concert killed by a terrorist attack.

Singers Harry Styles, Katy Perry and Taylor Swift were among those sending messages about their “tears” and “heartbreak” following the Manchester Arena explosion.

Corden, presenting The Late Late Show, said he was in “shock....especially when there will be so many children at this concert.

“And I’m telling you, a more tight-knit group of people you will be hard pressed to find,” he said of Manchester. “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.”

Viewers in the US would have heard of the city for “many wonderful things”, he said, including its two leading football teams and bands 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.

Styles said that he was “heartbroken over what happened in Manchester tonight,” tweeting: “Sending love to everyone involved.”

Singer Perry wrote that she was “praying for everyone” while Swift said: “My thoughts, prayers and tears for all those affected by the Manchester tragedy tonight. I’m sending all my love.”

Cher wrote: “My prayers go out to ppl of Manchester ... had special times there from youth and beyond.”

Rapper Nicki Minaj said: “My heart hurts for my sister, Ariana & every family affected by this tragic event in the UK. Innocent lives lost. I’m so sorry to hear this.”

Singer Miley Cyrus posted on Instagram: “Wishing I could give my friend Ariana Grande a great big hug right now... love love love you .... so sorry you had to be part of such a tragic event.”

“My most sincere condolences to anyone and everyone affected by this horrific attack! All I can do is send as much hope and peace your way! This must end! No more war .... no more innocent lives taken .... L-O-V-E”.

Christina Aguilera tweeted: “Devastated by the news of what happened in Manchester ...Sending my thoughts and prayers to everyone affected.”

Singer Lorde tweeted: “Every musician feels sick and responsible tonight — shows should be safe for you. Truly a worst nightmare. sending love to Manchester and Ari”.

Actress Reese Witherspoon said: “Sending prayers to the people of Manchester. I’m heartbroken for the lives lost and all the families suffering right now.”

Justin Bieber tweeted the hashtag “#PrayforManchester” while Styles’ ex band mate Niall Horan said the incident was “absolutely horrendous” and Liam Payne added: “To see what has happened in Manchester makes me really sad. My thoughts are with those that are experiencing such tragedy at this time x”

Singer Sam Smith wrote: “Just woken up and seen the news. My heart and soul is broken for every single victim, and their families and friends. So painfully sad x”.

Writer and actress Dunham wrote: “Heart breaks for everyone at the Ariana Grande show — terrorism and hatred disrupting a magical escapist experience. Sending all love.”

Rockers Kasabian wrote: “Our hearts are with everyone in Manchester this morning, had some incredible times playing that arena. Unbelievably sad xx”

John Legend described the attack as “heartbreaking”, Celine Dion wrote: “I am with you” and Justin Timberlake urged people to “love one another”.

Selena Gomez and Pink both offered their “thoughts and prayers”.

Antonio Banderas wrote that he was “appalled by the terrible attack in Manchester” while fellow Hollywood star Elba wrote: “That is f****** horrible what happened in Manchester. My heart goes out to the families of those who lost their lives. No.”

Jamie Oliver posted on Instagram: “Utterly shocked and saddened...?!?! My thoughts are with those affected in last night’s horrible attack. So sad ..love jo x x x

Fellow chef James Martin wrote: “Thoughts to all the friends and families this is horrible news. There are words for what is going on.

“If anyone needs help DM me.”

Take That singer Gary Barlow wrote: “Sad, sad news from Manchester. Praying for all the victims and families involved.”

Presenter Davina McCall wrote: “Words fail me ... thinking of Manchester ... and all those who have lost loved ones x”

Great British Bake Off judge Paul Hollywood wrote: “Feel sick after hearing the news about the cowardly attack in Manchester last night ... my thoughts are with all the families involved ... #stopradicalisation”.

Bake Off winner Nadiya Hussain wrote: “Such sad news. Terrifying for all those involved. My prayers are with you. Manchester.”

Comedian John Bishop wrote: “My heart goes out to everyone involved in the tragic events in Manchester last night. Heartbreaking.”

Strictly Come Dancing champion Ore Oduba added: “Heart is breaking at the devastating scenes in Manchester last night. Our beautiful city, innocent children and families. Praying for u all.”

Bruno Mars said: "No words can describe how I feel about what happened in Manchester. I don't wanna believe that the world we live in could be so cruel."

Singers Jennifer Lopez and Pink also sent messages of support.

Agencies

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