Brenda Edwards has paid tribute to son Jamal Edwards, after the YouTube legend's tragic death.
The founder of SBTV's passing at the age of 31 was confirmed by the company on Sunday, after rumours and tributes had circulated on social media, whilst his mum Brenda confirmed on Tuesday morning that he had passed away after a sudden illness.
Jamal, who was credited with helping launch the careers of stars like Jessie J and Dave, was the eldest of the Loose Women presenter's two children.
Brenda penned a statement and shared it with Good Morning Britain today, and it was read out live on air by Susanna Reid.
"It is with the deepest heartache that I confirm that my beautiful son Jamal Edwards passed away yesterday morning after a sudden illness. Myself, his sister Tanish and the rest of his family and friends are completely devastated. He was the centre of our world," she shared.
She continued: "As we come to terms with his passing, we ask for privacy to grieve this unimaginable loss. I would like to thank everyone for their messages of love and support.
"Jamal was an inspiration to myself and so many. Our love for him lives on, his legacy lives on. Long live Jamal Edwards MBE, MBA, PHD."
Brenda heartbreakingly confirmed Jamal's cause of death as she described him as the "centre of his world".
A string of Brenda's Loose Women stars have paid tribute to Jamal and vowed to support her, with Denise Welch writing: "My heart aches for my friend Brenda. I can’t bear it. Jamal Edwards was a wonderful son and brother [sad face emojis]."
Charlene White shared: "Your light shone so brightly that it touched so many of us, impacted the lives of many more, and changed the game forever. And, you are my Brenda’s son. There are no words to describe her heartbreak, our heartbreak, now that your light has gone. Sometimes life is terribly unfair."
"I have just heard the heartbreaking news that @jamaledwards has died," Saira Khan penned, "I am devastated for @brendaedwardsglobal and send her and her whole family my prayers and deepest sympathies. I met @jamaledwards whilst filming a children's show and was struck by his humility and passion to help kids to believe in their talents."
Ruth Langsford also left a tribute to Jamal and promised her and the Loose Women co-stars would "wrap their arms" around her.
"My heart is breaking for my friend @brendaedwardsglobal after the loss of her amazing son Jamal yesterday. I can only imagine her unbearable pain. Grief is the price we pay for love," she shared, "The @loosewomen will wrap our arms around her and try to fill her with all the strength we have. My condolences and love to you my darling friend, Tanisha and all your family. RIP Jamal. X."
In November 2021, Jamal appeared on Loose Women alongside his mother and credited the former X Factor contestant with inspiring him.
Quizzing him about his incredible career achievements, Gloria Hunniford asked Jamal: "I want to know what the drive in you made you want that success…"
The late star responded: "My friends weren’t being represented in mainstream media, so that’s what inspired me.
"But obviously my mum’s work ethic inspired me. I remember going to pub when she was doing karaoke and doing my homework there. She was always working very hard."
Thanks to his impressive achievements and career, Jamal was appointed an MBE for services to music in 2014.
The late star was also an ambassador for the Prince's Trust, a youth charity run by the Prince of Wales which helps young people set up their own companies.
On Sunday night, Labour MP Zarah Sultana paid tribute to Jamal's legacy and all that he accomplished throughout his life.
"The impact SBTV had on the UK’s music scene and British culture is immeasurable," the politician tweeted.
"Rest in peace, Jamal Edwards. My thoughts are with everyone who knew and loved him."
