Martyn Hett’s ‘soulmate’ pays heartbreaking tribute after Ariana Grande concert bombing
Martyn Hett and boyfriend Russell Hayward
Martyn Hett’s “soulmate” has paid heartbreaking tribute after the 29-year-old was killed in the terrorist attack at the Ariana Grande concert this week.
Russell Hayward had previously begged his followers to help find Martyn when he went missing in the aftermath of the explosion at the Manchester Arena on Monday night.
“Please please find Martyn. He’s my best friend in the whole world,” Russell said soon after the attack.
Ariana Grande in concert (Paras Griffin/Getty Images for iHeart)
He later added: “Thanks for all your messages, as you can imagine my phone is going crazy. I’m trying my absolute best to keep it together. No news yet.
“Soulmate doesn’t even come close. Come back to us Martyn so we can watch last nights Corrie together.”
Related: Queen pays tribute to Ariana Grande bomb victims with minute’s silence at Buckingham Palace
Today he confirmed the sad news that Martyn was one of the 22 people already to have died in the attack.
“We got the news last night that our wonderful iconic and beautiful Martyn didn’t survive,” he said.
“I’m in a really bad way so please forgive if I don’t reply.
“Thankfully I have his wonderful family and amazing friends to keep each other strong. I love you Martyn I always will. X”
Martyn worked in public relations and was a popular figure in the LGBT community with a strong following on social media.
Other friends and family have also paid tribute to Martyn since news of his death was confirmed.
His friend Christina posted a poem in dedication, while his brother Dan simply wrote: “They found my brother last night. we are heartbroken.”
He received plenty of media attention when he was alive, with he and Russell being dubbed the ultimate “Coronation Street superfan couple”.
That was in part because of Martyn’s striking Deirdre Barlow tattoo.
Martyn was due to travel to the US for two months after the Ariana Grande show, where he planned to join a meet-up of Mariah Carey fans and attend The Wendy Williams Show.
Emergency numbers have been established for anyone who is concerned for loved ones who may not have returned home: 0161 856 9400 or 0161 856 9900.
