Kelly Rowland apologises for mispronouncing Niall Horan’s name at the AMAs
Niall Horan had a fantastic night last night at the American Music Awards (AMAs) in LA.
He had the chance to perform at the popular award show for the first time since becoming a solo artist.
Introducing Niall as he performed his hit single Slow Hands for the packed-out Microsoft Theatre in LA were Kat Graham and Kelly Rowland.
Unfortunately, Kelly made a bit of a mess when it came to the former One Direction singer’s name. Rather than introduce Niall Horan, Kelly introduced someone called Niell Haren.
.@KELLYROWLAND & @KatGraham introduce your #AMAs New Artist of The Year, @NiallOfficial's performance 😍 #NIALLxAMAs pic.twitter.com/oJ1u0Pxlhl
— American Music Awards (@AMAs) November 20, 2017
The new name trended on Twitter during the live broadcast of the awards in the US. But some fans were not pleased.
Me when Kelly Rowland called Niall Horan “Neal Horn” on the AMAs pic.twitter.com/v79pPKlawi
— sergeant dick lips the third (@TeahLhompson) November 20, 2017
Can I just say that Kelly Rowland pronounced Niall Horan's name completely wrong! #BTSxAMAs pic.twitter.com/F0xqfBs72w
— Suraya 🎈 (@surayamansoor20) November 20, 2017
But Kelly was quick to apologise for her error and posted a video on Twitter, tagging Niall and saying that she is a fan of his tunes.
😜😚 @NiallOfficial #sowwy pic.twitter.com/PLszTYLzuL
— KELENDRIA ROWLAND (@KELLYROWLAND) November 20, 2017
And of course, the lovely Niall was not one to hold a grudge. He also pointed out that she is not the first one to pronounce his name wrong. Something that countless Irish people can empathise with.
Hahahahah I love ya kelly , don’t you worry . I’ve heard them all .
— Niall Horan (@NiallOfficial) November 20, 2017
Not only did he belt out a flawless performance, Niall also beat out tough competition from James Arthur, Julia Michaels, Post Malone and Rae Sremmurd to pick up the award for Best New Artist.
✨ @NiallOfficial's acceptance speech for New Artist of the Year presented by @TMobile! ✅ #AMAs pic.twitter.com/myW3MxlI3Y
— American Music Awards (@AMAs) November 20, 2017
All in all - even with a new nickname - it was a successful and memorable night for the Mullingar lad.
