Simon Cowell Says Touching Words to Louis Tomlinson: 'Your Mom Was So Proud of You'

Louis Tomlinson made his debut solo performance outside of One Direction tonight (December 10) and his longtime mentor Simon Cowell said some touching words afterward.

The 24-year-old singer returned to The X Factor UK to premiere his new song “Just Hold On” just days after his mom Johannah Deakin passed away.

WATCH VIDEO: Louis Tomlinson performs “Just Hold On” live for the first time!

The performance was scheduled before Louis‘ mom died and Simon opened up about how she was looking forward to seeing her son perform.

“Louis, I have to say something to you. I’ve known you now for six years. What you’ve just done, and the bravery, I respect you as an artist. I respect you as a person,” Simon said. “Your mom was so proud of you Louis and she was so looking forward to tonight. She’s watching down on you now and you’ve done her proud.”