Simon Cowell and Cheryl Pay Tribute To G.R.L's Simone Battle

Simon Cowell and Cheryl Fernandez-Versini are among the many stars who have paid tribute to G.R.L. member Simone Battle who died aged 25 on Friday (5th September).

The singer, who was a finalist on The X Factor USA in 2011 and scored the no.11 hit ‘Ugly Heart’ with G.R.L. earlier this year, was found dead by her father at her Hollywood home. The circumstances around her death remain unknown.

Announcing Simone’s death, a joint statement from Reign Deer Entertainment, Robin Antin, Kemosabe Records, and RCA Records read: "We are deeply saddened by the tragic news of the loss of Simone Battle of G.R.L.

“Simone was an exceptional young talent and human being, and we are all devastated to learn of her passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family and loved ones at this time."

A statement on G.R.L’s Facebook page reads: “Words cannot express the depth of our loss. Simone's incredible talent was only surpassed by the size of her heart. We will carry her memory with us in everything we do.”

X Factor judge Simon Cowell said he was “so sad” to hear the tragic news, while Cheryl wrote “My thoughts and prayers are with her loved ones.”

Simon’s fellow former X Factor USA judge Paula Abdul wrote: "My heart & prayers go out 2 @GRLSimone's family, band mates, & loved ones. Such a beautiful sweet promising star. May she rest in peace. xoP."

Pitbull, who collaborated with G.R.L. on the Top 10 smash ‘Wild Wild Love’, said: “My heart and prayers go out to @GRLSimone: @grl and her family. RIP Dios la bendiga.”

And Nicole Scherzinger wrote: “Devastated & upset to hear about the passing of @GRLSimone. My prayers go out to her family @robinantinpcd @GRL & my ReignDeer family.”