Global superstars in emotional tribute to One Direction before hiatus

David Beckham, Danny DeVito and Simon Cowell among people who honoured the band.

Boys received heaps of praise from judges

 The four-piece group are gearing up to take a hiatus and Simon Cowell took the opportunity to bid them farewell  five years after they finished in third place on the competition along with celebrities including David Beckham, Danny DeVito and Little Mix after they sang their new single Infinity. 

Introducing the star studded clip, Simon said: "This takes me back five years ago when I met five guys, singing as solo artists and then I never could have predicted what would happen next.

Simon Cowell poured his heart out to the lads he found on show years ago

"Now I know you’re going to take a break, you deserve the break and I want to really just take the chance now to say thank you, you’ have been an absolute pleasure to work with.

"Five of the nicest guys I’ve ever met. Enjoy the time off, have a fantastic time, and there’s a few other people who’ve got a few words to say to you."   Speaking in the clip, actor and US TV host James Corden said: "My boys please don’t be away too long because we’re going to miss you. And we love you."

And Robbie Williams added: "Come back fitter, faster and stronger. Lots of love."

During the segment, footballer Wayne Rooney told them to make the most of their time off. He said: "Hey lads I’ve followed you right from the beginning and look where you are today. It’s a massive achievement. I hope you enjoy your holidays."

And Hollywood actor Danny DeVito, who starred in the video to their single Steal My Girl, suggested they should work on their acting skills while away from music. He joked: "Danny D here, I heard you’re going to take a little break, spend some of that money you earned, good for you. While you’re at it, take a couple of acting lessons."

Following the tear-jerking clip, band member Liam Payne praised the competition for putting them together but also insisted they are doing the right thing by taking some time off. He said: "We’ve has the most amazing five years, we just want to thank X Factor, Simon, the whole crew, you guys have been absolutely amazing and we just can’t believe it.

"And we’re sad that we’re going away for a little while but we need it. "Just thank you to all the fans that have supported us over the years. You can see how happy we are, it’s genuine happiness and it’s all because of you guys. Thank you so much."

Earlier today, #ThisIsNotTheEndOfOneDirection was the top trending topic worldwide ahead of their performance. Their final show together is expected to be an appearance at Dick Clark's New Year's Rockin' Eve With Ryan Seacrest in the US at the end of the month.

There was also an awkward embrace between Rita Ora and Harry Styles
when he nearly ended up with a handful of boob.