Following last night’s attack at Manchester Arena, which left at least 20 dead and dozens injured after an Ariana Grande concert, late night host James Corden recorded a tribute, expressing his deep sorrow for the people of Manchester, England.

While Corden is well known for his lighthearted Carpool Karaoke series, the late night host was visibly emotional while opening his show last night. Speaking into the camera in front of an empty audience, Corden addressed the attack that was taking place in his home country during the taping of his show.

“It shocks me every time we hear this sort of news that attacks like this can happen, but especially when there will be so many children at this concert tonight.”

Corden went on to describe everything that makes the city of Manchester great, noting it was the birthplace of British suffragette leader Emmeline Pankhurst and home to famous musicians including Oasis and Joy Division.

“But when I think of Manchester, the place that I know, I think of the spirit of the people there. And I’m telling you, a more tight-knit group of people you will be hard-pressed to find,” Corden said, adding, “If it was even possible, the spirit of the people of Manchester will grow even stronger tonight.”