GB News presenter Ben Leo struggled to maintain his composure whilst discussing the shooting of his friend, conservative activist Charlie Kirk, during a broadcast.

"I'm in real shock about the news. There's a dark cloud over America with what has happened," Ben stated on air.

The presenter revealed he had viewed footage of the incident that left him deeply disturbed. "I've just seen a video online and it has shocked me to my core. I interviewed him a few months ago on GB News, he's a very sweet guy," Ben explained.

The emotional broadcaster admitted he needed to collect himself before appearing on camera. "The videos going around online have shocked me to my core and I have had to compose myself to come on air," he said.

Ben Leo said he 'was in tears'

Ben spoke movingly about Mr Kirk's role as a parent during their off-camera conversations. "I spoke to him off air and he was so proud. He's a father of two young children. He is such a proud father, so dedicated to his family," the presenter recalled.

The GB News host emphasised Mr Kirk's commitment to advocating for traditional family structures across university campuses. "He promoted the importance of family on campuses across the US and the UK and I am praying tonight," Ben said.

Ben concluded his tribute with an appeal for prayers extending beyond the activist himself.

"I am praying not just for Charlie, but for his children also," he stated, highlighting the impact on Mr Kirk's young family.

Nigel Farage sent his well-wishes to Mr Kirk

He was shot during a speaking engagement at Utah Valley University in Orem on Wednesday evening.

The 31-year-old chief executive and co-founder of Turning Point USA was addressing students when gunfire erupted.

"We are confirming that he was shot and we are praying for Charlie," Aubrey Laitsch, public relations manager for Turning Point USA, told reporters. The university issued an alert to students confirming that "a single shot was fired on campus toward a visiting speaker."

Law enforcement responded immediately to the incident, with police taking a suspect into custody. Kirk's current medical condition remains undisclosed.

Conservative activist Charlie Kirk was shot in the neck at event at Utah Valley University

The shooting occurred during a student question-and-answer session in the university's courtyard, where Mr Kirk was conducting a debate.

Nigel Farage expressed his dismay at the incident, describing it as "a bad moment" and revealing his decade-long acquaintance with Mr Kirk.

The Reform UK leader noted he had known the activist since before Kirk achieved prominence as a social media influencer.

The shooting represents the latest in a series of politically motivated attacks across America. Previous incidents include an assault on a Democratic congresswoman and her spouse at their residence in June, the firebombing of a Colorado parade demanding Hamas release hostages, and an arson attack at the Pennsylvania governor's home in April.

Nearly 900 Utah Valley University students had signed a petition opposing Kirk's appearance on campus before his arrival. The activist had addressed an event in Albuquerque last month, discussing topics ranging from immigration to housing and Christianity.