Celebrities from around the world have expressed their sadness following the terror attack that took place in Nice, southern France on Thursday night. At least 84 people were killed when a speeding lorry drove down the Promenade des Anglais, hitting those who were out celebrating Bastille Day.
French President Francois Hollande gave a televised address, fighting back tears as he said the nation had been "badly hit" and that the tragedy was of an "undeniable terrorist nature".
Three days of national mourning will also commence on Saturday for the victims, Prime Minister Manuel Valls announced.
© Photo: Getty ImagesFrench President Francois Hollande gave a televised address
Stars from Simon Cowell to Kim Kardashian have shared their condolences on social media, while politicians have condemned the attack.
The X Factor judge tweeted, "Just heard the terrible news from Nice. I am shocked. My thoughts and prayers to all affected," while Kim wrote: "My heart goes out to everyone in Nice. Lots of prayers being sent your way. God the world needs you."
Strictly's Karen Clifton posted, "This world is becoming a very scary place. #PrayForNice," a message that was echoed by her fellow pro dancer Robin Windsor: "Every day a new tragedy. What is the world coming to? #prayfornice."
"My heart breaks for France. How do we stop this?" wrote Boy George.
© Photo: InstagramThe term "#prayfornice" started trending on Twitter
Kimberley Walsh shared a photo on Instagram of the tricolore and used the trending hashtag "#prayfornice" to express her sorrow. Rihanna also used the picture-sharing site to announce that she was cancelling her concert scheduled for Friday at the Allianz Stadium. "Our thoughts are with the victims and their families," she added.
Rihanna was in Nice at the time but her representative confirmed that she was "safe". Likewise, the cast and crew of Fifty Shades Darker have all been accounted for and are "safe and sound", the film's makers said.
Made in Chelsea's Lucy Watson also tweeted that she was "grateful" her sister Tiffany is safe, adding, "My thoughts are with everyone in France".
© Photo: InstagramRihanna announced on Instagram that she was cancelling her Nice show
Politicians have also shown their support for the European nation and its leader, Mr Hollande. US President Barack Obama released a statement, writing: "We stand in solidarity and partnership with France, our oldest alley, as they respond to and recover from this attack.
"On this Bastille Day, we are reminded of the extraordinary resilience and demoncratic values that have made France an inspiration to the entire world, and we know that the character of the French Republic will endure long after this devastating and tragic loss of life."
Former UK Prime Minister David Cameron tweeted: "A sickening and dreadful attack in Nice. I know we stand with the French people and share their values. They shall never defeat us."
