North StarsLea Michele Breaks Her Silence, Dedicates Teen Choice Award to Cory Monteith
Nearly a month since Cory Monteith's untimely death, his "Glee" co-star and girlfriend, Lea Michele, finally broke her silence at the 2013 Teen Choice Awards.
In her first public appearance since the tragedy, Lea walked onto the stage with a smile and a wave to accept her award for Choice TV Actress in a comedy.
Presenter Lily Collins immediately wrapped the 26-year-old actress in a warm hug. Michele's cast mates Kevin McHale, Jenna Ushkowitz, and Amber Riley quickly followed suit, surrounding the star in a group embrace to offer their support.
But when the time came for her to speak up, she stood alone. Looking absolutely stunning in a pink skirt and top, Lea occasionally touched her "Cory" nameplate necklace (which she is still wearing along with what looks to be a diamond engagement ring on her ring finger), as she smiled through her tears and approached the microphone.
"Thank you guys. Thank you," she began. "I just wanted to be here today to personally thank all of you and tell everyone out there how much all of your love and support has meant to me over these very past difficult few weeks. Thank you."
Amid cheers of encouragement from her fans, she continued, "Not that I had doubt before, but you guys are certainly the greatest fans in the world, and I want to dedicate this award to Cory," she explained. "For all of you who loved and admired Cory as much as I did, I promise that with your love we are going to get through this together."
[Related: A Look Back at Lea and Cory's Romance]
Even as the tears flowed, she remained remarkably composed as she spoke of what Cory meant to her. "He was very special to me and also to the world and we were very lucky to witness his incredible talent, his handsome smile, and his beautiful, beautiful heart. So whether you knew him personally or just as Finn Hudson, Cory reached out and became a part of all of our hearts and that's where he'll stay forever. So thank you guys so much. Thank you."
She then turned to walk off stage, flanked by her cast mates once again. While there is no doubt that this is a devastating time for the star, we're certain that her beautifully honest speech lifted many hearts — and hopefully hers as well.
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