Roman Kemp's tribute to his 'kind and compassionate' godfather George Michael
Roman Kemp paid tribute to his late godfather George Michael during ITV's Together At Christmas event.
The One Show presenter's parents Shirlie Holliman and Martin Kemp were actually set up by the late Wham! singer, with the couple even deciding to make the Last Christmas singer their first-born's godfather when Roman arrived into the world in 1993 - a role George cherished.
Capital FM DJ Roman, 30, appeared alongside the likes of Kate Middleton and other celebrities as the Princess of Wales hosted her Together At Christmas event at Westminster Abbey and welcomed her family, members of the monarchy and inspiring individuals in celebration of those supporting children and families.
The pre-recorded Christmas concert paid a poignant tribute to The Beatles legend John Lennon and George Michael, who sadly passed away on Christmas Day in 2016.
A young Roman Kemp with his beloved godfather George Michael (ITV)"When John Lennon passed away, his piano went up for auction and George Michael bought it," Roman recalled as he shared a story at the concert. "Not only did George use and play the piano to write and record," Roman continued, "but he toured it around the world as a symbol of peace."
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George's godson added: "George was a man of great kindness and compassion. He meant so much to those who knew him - especially children, who tonight are at the very heart of this Christmas carol service. Even though he's not here physically, he is certainly here with us in spirit. George was also my godfather and was there from the day from the day I was born. He helped inspire not only myself but so many others."
During the concert, which aired on ITV on Christmas Eve, Prince William arrived with Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis, after Kate travelled ahead to thank celebrities for agreeing to perform, including Oscar winner Jim Broadbent and singers Beverley Knight and Adam Lambert.
Among the large number of royal guests were the Duchess of Edinburgh, Princess Beatrice her stepson Christopher Mapelli Mozzi and husband Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi, Princess Eugenie, Zara Tindall and Peter Phillips and his daughters Savannah and Isla.
The One Show host as he paid tribute to his late godfather during the concert (ITV)Before the concert started Kate met celebrities in the Abbey’s stunning 16th century Lady Chapel, and chatting to Broadbent expressed her appreciation at him agreeing to read an extract from Letters From Father Christmas by Lord Of The Rings author JRR Tolkien. She said: “Thank you for your time because I know the lead up to Christmas can be busy for people.”
Kate appeared to joke with multi-instrumentalist Collier, who has posted music tutorial videos on YouTube, about her daughter learning the piano and he quipped “many a plink and a plonk”. She also walked around the Abbey before the event began, speaking to young people who have done inspiring activities.
Kate crouched down to chat to seven-year-old Oscar Burrow, from Lancaster, who when aged six climbed 12 mountains raising more than £40,000 for Derian House Children’s Hospice in Chorley, Lancashire.
His mother Kimberley Burrow said afterwards: “She said she’d heard about what he’s done and he’s doing a fantastic job, and hopes what he’s doing will inspire other children to do amazing things.” The service began with the popular carol, Once In Royal David’s City, and the congregation also heard a duet by Beverley Knight and Adam Lambert who performed The Christmas Song, made famous by Nat King Cole.
William read the passage from the Gospel according to Luke that describes how Joseph and Mary travelled to Bethlehem to be registered, and the birth of Jesus. The Abbey echoed with the voices of its choir and the congregation singing a selection of carols including Silent Night, Holy Night and Joy To The World, as well as Hark! The Herald Angels Sing.
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