Simon Cowell took a swipe at Zayn Malik at the Music Industry Trusts Awards last night (02.11.15).
Simon Cowell with Lauren Silverman at 24th Music Industry Trusts Awards
The 56-year-old music mogul left the crowd stunned at the ceremony, which was held in his honour, after he accepted the gong from One Direction and took a swipe at their former bandmate - who left the boy band in March - by insisting he would do just as well as their fifth member.
Speaking from the stage at London's Grosvenor House Hotel with Niall Horan, Louis Tomlinson, Harry Styles and Liam Payne standing behind him, he said: "Just by luck I get the award I've been wanting all my life and I'm completely hammered. Guys, who misses Zayn? We all get old but I've still got charisma"
After chuckles from the crowd, Simon - who was joined by his partner Lauren Silverman at the star-studded, 24th MITS ceremony- went on to thank the inventor of botox.
He joked: "I want to say a special mention to somebody who made my TV career last 14 years, he's not here tonight but he deserves a special mention. It's the person who made botox. "You have no idea how much money you've made me, I can't even look surprised. But I love you wherever you are."
The 'X Factor' judge ended on a thank you note and said: "It's been a really great, fun night, so thank you for your welcome and your sense of humour."
Simon was recognised for his contribution to the music and entertainment industry and his various charitable causes and stars came out to praise their colleague and friend.
'X Factor' presenter Caroline Flack said: "He's someone who makes you feel good whenever you talk to him."
Performances on the night came from Labrinth, Leona Lewis and Olly Murs.
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