Coldplay paused its performance at Wembley Stadium and frontman Chris Martin urged the audience to "send love" to the family of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, who was shot and killed during a speaking engagement last week.
Martin stopped the band's Music of the Spheres tour show and addressed the crowd from the middle of the arena, asking fans to raise their hands and direct well-wishes to people and places in need, including "Charlie Kirk’s family." He counted down with the audience and the moment concluded with a fireworks display.
Kirk, 31, was shot and killed on Sept. 10 while speaking at Utah Valley University in Orem. He is survived by his wife, Erika Kirk, and their two children. Authorities have taken 22-year-old Tyler Robinson into custody; a probable cause affidavit reviewed by media outlets listed potential charges including aggravated murder, felony discharge of a firearm causing serious injury and obstruction of justice.
Erika Kirk delivered a televised tribute two days after her husband's death in which she described him as a devoted father and husband and spoke of his faith and love of country. President Donald Trump called Kirk "the finest person" and said on national television that he hoped the suspect would receive the death penalty.
Several other musicians also acknowledged Kirk's death during recent performances. Country singer Morgan Wallen, in Edmonton, Alberta, said he and his family were "sending prayers" to Erika Kirk before performing the song "I'm a Little Crazy." Wallen described the song as having hit him harder in the days following the killing and invited the audience to join him.
Jason Aldean paid tribute to Kirk during a Sept. 11 show in Detroit, calling him "one of the best people ever" and criticizing the notion of targeting people over their beliefs. Aldean referenced reactions to his own 2023 single and video, saying Kirk had supported a message of civic unity and accountability. "Charlie is a guy that's going to be very, very much missed," Aldean said in remarks captured by audience video.
Texas-based country artist Parker McCollum also posted an image of Kirk on social media, describing him as "one of the greatest young patriots" and offering prayers for the family.
Turning Point USA, the conservative activist organization Kirk founded, released video of Erika Kirk speaking about her husband and his devotion to family, faith and country. Local officials have said investigations into the shooting are ongoing as prosecutors review evidence and the probable cause affidavit.
Coldplay's remarks reflect a pattern of public figures using concerts and live events to offer brief tributes or moments of reflection after high-profile violent incidents. The band's Music of the Spheres tour is in its final leg, with the Wembley stop among several European stadium dates scheduled this month.
No trial date has been announced for the suspect. Authorities and family members have not released further immediate requests or plans for public memorials beyond the statements and appearances already made by family and associates.