Cheryl teased that she and boyfriend Liam Payne enjoy a wild sex life when she was interviewed during the live TV broadcast of the BRIT Awards on Wednesday evening.
Despite mounting speculation over the status of their relationship, Cheryl, 34, and 24-year old Liam looked smitten as they attended the music extravaganza at London's O2 Arena, but some were left wondering if it was all a stunt.
And the couple were enjoying the start of the show at their table when host Jack Whitehall decided to pick them out for an on-air interview for the ITV viewers at home.
Awkward: Liam Payne and Cheryl were forced into an awkward exchange with BRIT Awards host Jack Whitehall as the event kicked off at London's O2 Arena on Wednesday
Referencing Liam's upcoming performance on the night of Fifty Shades Freed soundtrack song For You, Jack cheekily referenced the erotic thriller's S&M theme.
'You're performing later, the song from the Fifty Shades film, it's going to get quite racy... is there a safe word?' he asked.
Liam then motioned towards Cheryl, saying, 'She knows what the safe word is,' to which the former Girls Aloud star added: 'Don't stop!'
It was a rare joint appearance by the couple since the birth of their baby son Bear 11 months ago, and comedian Jack, 29, asked: 'How's date night going so far?'
'Going great so far,' Liam responded, as Cheryl looked on silently. 'We're having a good time.'
Under pressure: The couple, whose brief relationship is thought to be under increasing strain, looked visibly uncomfortable as the comedian made a beeline for their table
Cheeky: Referencing Liam's upcoming performance on the night of Fifty Shades Freed soundtrack song For You, Jack cheekily referenced the erotic thriller's S&M theme
Banter: Addressing the couple directly, Whitehall - who was hosting the event for the first time - playfully asked, 'How is date night going?'
Mischievous Jack then asked the pair to wave to their "little man" home - 11-month old son Bear - and as they did as instructed he cracked a joke about Liam's diminutive band-mate Niall Horan, adding: ‘Hello Niall!’
Though their overzealous behaviour - amid claims that the two-year romance would be over 'within weeks' - cast some doubt on the relationship again, when friends told The Sun that the love-fest was 'just a stunt'.
A source told the publication that Liam and Cheryl were attempting to hide their relationship woes with an overzealous display, just days after they were plagued with rumours of an impending split.
The insider said: 'Cheryl and Liam's friends say things aren't good between them and have made it clear their relationship will soon end.
Duet: As Cheryl watched her man in action, Liam and Rita Ora took to the stage to perform at the glittering awards gala
Eye-catching: Rita stepped out in eye-catching style, displaying her shapely frame as she took to the stage in a white bodysuit
'But with a single to promote, Liam was not going to miss the opportunity, and having Cheryl with him gives him even more limelight.
'They are trying to work things out and want to be together for their son Bear's first birthday next month. But things are very strained.'
Representatives for Cheryl and Liam have been contacted for comment. A representative for Liam Payne said stunt claims were 'fabricated' and 'untrue in every sense'.
And, as Cheryl watched her man in action, Liam took the stage with Rita Ora to perform their sexy Fifty Shades Freed song, For You.
For You: They put on the show's penultimate performance, singing their track For You, from the Fifty Shades Freed soundtrack
High five! After belting out the concluding notes of their sultry track, a smiling Rita raised her hand to high-five a happy Liam
Hug it out: As their duet came to an end, the pair shared a friendly hug - amid raucous cheers and applause from the audience
But the singers kept their duet considerably tame, opting to forgo any suggestive gyrating or raunchy moves as they kept a fair distance between themselves during their performance.
However, as their duet came to an end - and Liam responded to Rita's high-five with a hug and a peck on the cheek - host Jack Whitehall joked: 'ITV hasn't seen that much sexual chemistry since the Trump-Morgan interview.'
Earlier that night Liam and Cheryl smiled and cuddled each other as they posed for the photographers lining the expansive red carpet leading into the venue.
Stepping out together: Cheryl and Liam stepped out together for the BRIT Awards, held at London's O2 Arena on Wednesday night
Former Girls Aloud singer Cheryl hit the big musical event in style, stepping out in a black zibeline Jean-Louis Sabaji minidress, which featured laser-cut plumes enveloping the neckline and cascading down one arm to incarnate a sleeve.
Standing tall in a pair of black heels - which featured large red rose embellishments - the Fight For This Love singer wore her raven tresses in a sleek ponytail.
With glittering earrings serving as her main accessories, the former X Factor judge highlighted her natural beauty with a rich palette of richly-hued makeup.
Together: The couple packed on the PDA as they put on a show of solidarity amid split rumours
Cheryl and Liam were seen joining singers Sam Smith and Jessie Ware at the afterparty, following their unexpected appearance on the red carpet together.
The former X Factor judge was seen making a funny face at Liam as they posed for the cameras, as they continued to dispel rumours of a split.
Also making an appearance at the bash was Liam's One Direction bandmate Niall Horan, following a very awkward joke about the trio during the awards show.
Holding hands: She held hands with her long-term partner as she led him down the red carpet
Giggle: The pair laughed and whispered in each other's ears as they posed for photographers
Whispering sweet nothings? The former Girls Aloud singer gazed at her beau as they spoke
White rose: Cheryl arrived holding a long-stemmed white rose, in solidarity with Time's Up
Cheryl is thought to be spending much of her time at home on her own with Bear, because she would rather stay in watching TV than go out to showbiz parties.
The source said: 'Cheryl basically went into hibernation when she got pregnant and has made the decision to be a stay at home mother with no nanny and is looking after Bear herself. She doesn't like going out much as she used to.'
While another friend close to the couple added: 'The fact of the matter is, like most young couple's with busy work lives and the demands of an infant they have been struggling to spend time together.
BRIT Awards 2018: Full winners list BRITISH ALBUM OF THE YEAR Dua Lipa - Dua Lipa Ed Sheeran - Divide J Hus - Common Sense Rag 'n' Bone Man - Humour Stormzy - Gang Signs & Prayer - WINNER BRITISH MALE SOLO ARTIST Ed Sheeran Liam Gallagher Loyle Carner Rag'n'Bone Man Stormzy - WINNER BRITISH FEMALE SOLO ARTIST Paloma Faith Kate Tempest Jessie Ware Laura Marling Dua Lipa - WINNER BRITISH GROUP Wolf Alice Gorillaz - WINNER London Grammar The XX Royal Blood BRITISH BREAKTHROUGH Dave Dua Lipa - WINNER J Hus Loyle Carner Sampha BRITISH ARTIST VIDEO OF THE YEAR Anne-Marie - Ciao Adios Calvin Harris Ft Pharrell Williams, Katy Perry and Big Sean - Feels Clean Bandit Ft Zara Larsson - Symphony Dua Lipa - New Rules Ed Sheeran - Shape Of You Harry Styles - Sign Of The Times - WINNER Jonas Blue Ft William Singe - Mama Liam Payne Ft Quavo - Strip That Down Little Mix - Touch ZAYN and Taylor Swift - I Don't Wanna Live Forever CRITICS' CHOICE AWARD Jorja Smith - WINNER Mabel Stefflon Don BRITISH SINGLE OF THE YEAR Liam Payne - 'Strip That Down' featuring Quavo Jax Jones feat. Raye - 'You Don't Know Me' Clean Bandit - 'Symphony' featuring Zara Larsson Rag'n'Bone Man - 'Human' - WINNER J HUS - 'Did You See' Calvin Harris - 'Feels' featuring Pharrell Williams, Katy Perry and Big Sean Dua Lipa - 'New Rules' Ed Sheeran - 'Shape of You' Jonas Blue - 'Mama' featuring William Singe Little Mix - 'Touch' INTERNATIONAL FEMALE SOLO ARTIST Taylor Swift Lorde - WINNER Bjork P!nk Alicia Keys INTERNATIONAL MALE SOLO ARTIST Kendrick Lemar - WINNER Childish Gambino Drake Beck DJ Khaled INTERNATIONAL GROUP Foo Fighters - WINNER Arcade Fire LCD Soundsystem Haim The Killers BRITISH PRODUCER OF THE YEAR Steve Mac (Ed Sheeran ÷) - WINNER GLOBAL SUCCESS AWARD Ed Sheeran - WINNER
Glamorous: With glittering earrings serving as her main accessories, the former X Factor judge highlighted her natural beauty with a rich palette of richly-hued makeup
Liam also put on a dapper display himself, arriving at the celebratory gathering in a powder blue double-breasted blazer, which he wore over a black polo shirt.
Teaming his threads with black trousers, he added a further casual touch to his look with the addition of a pair of black running shoes.
It was a surprise to see the duo looking so smitten, following days of speculation that the relationship would be over 'within weeks'.
Yet their overzealous red carpet PDA, coupled with pictures showing them fawning over each other during 'private' moments backstage, cast some doubt over whether their behaviour was genuine.
Stylish display: Cheryl hit the big musical event in style, stepping out in a black zibeline Jean-Louis Sabaji minidress, which featured laser-cut plumes enveloping the neckline
Intricate: The laser-cut plumes on her dress cascaded down one arm to incarnate a sleeve
Affection: Cheryl and Liam stole affectionate glances at one another as they posed up a storm
Parents' night out: The pair left their 11-month-old son Bear at home for their night on the town
She's got sole! Standing tall in a pair of black heels - which featured large red rose embellishments - the Fight For This Love singer wore her raven tresses in a sleek ponytail
'But with a single to promote, Liam was not going to miss the opportunity, and having Cheryl with him gives him even more limelight.
'They are trying to work things out and want to be together for their son Bear's first birthday next month. But things are very strained.'
Their social media coverage of the rare date night was extensive. Liam took to Instagram to earlier in the day to share a brief video of himself.
He said: 'Hi everybody... I am just getting ready for the BRIT Awards. We've just done a rehearsal and it's gone really, really good. It's gonna be nice performing with Rita [Ora] again and you'll see me.'
He also uploaded footage of him and Cheryl posing together on the BRIT Awards red carpet, followed by a boomerang clip of him greeting his rapper pal Stormzy.
But he saved the best for last, uploading self-shot footage of himself and Cheryl posing together backstage as they sung along to a track, before she was seen relaxing on a couch next to her beau and lovingly stroking his nose.
It was revealed just the day before that Cheryl has planned to attend the awards ceremony with the father of her only child - as it was announced that he would be taking to the stage to perform with Rita Ora.
Having a chat: Cheryl and Liam were seen deep in conversation after posing for photographers
Dapper display: Liam also put on a dapper display himself, arriving at the celebratory gathering in a powder blue double-breasted blazer, which he wore over a black polo shirt
Packing on the PDA: Their PDA-heavy display was the first time the couple had been seen showing so much public affection since their relationship came to light
Casual touch: Teaming his threads with black trousers, he added a further casual touch to his look with the addition of a pair of black running shoes
Hand in hand: The couple looked close as they made their way across the red carpet
Say cheese: There were smiles all round as the couple posed for photos
No trouble here: Any indication of an imminent split was brushed aside during their latest public appearance on Wednesday
It's there in black and white: After the couple walked the red carpet, Liam took to Instagram to share a black-and-white shot of them making their arrival together
According to The Sun, the singer knew she would be seeing Liam cosying up to Rita onstage, but wanted to put on a united front with the former One Direction heartthrob after being left 'embarrassed' by the split rumours.
The One Direction crooner and Rita, 27, are set to belt out their hit For You at the bash - the raunchy lead single for new flick Fifty Shades Freed.
While Cheryl is thought to prefer spending time at home with their son Bear, a source has revealed she attended the bash with her boyfriend, in order to show her support in the face of split claims.
For real? The couple's romantic display claim as sources told The Sun newspaper that friends believe their PDA-fest is 'just a publicity stunt'
Stars together: Cheryl and Liam posed up a storm with fellow singers Sam Smith and Jessie Ware
Look who it is! Liam and Cheryl also reunited with his One Direction co-star Niall Horan, who was at the butt of a hilarous joke during the awards show
Not so awkward! Luckily the trio seemed to be in good spirits following the awkward awards show moment
Trouble in paradise? Sources have claimed that Liam and Cheryl's PDA-fest is front, as they desperately try to dispel rumours of a split
Genuine? The source said: 'They are trying to work things out and want to be together for their son Bear's first birthday next month. But things are very strained'
United front: Cheryl, 34, and boyfriend Liam Payne, 24, were seen putting on a loved-up display once again as they attended the BRITs Universal Music afterparty on Wednesday night
An insider told the paper: 'She knows everyone will be talking about her and Liam, and she's really embarrassed about the whole thing.
'It doesn't help that Liam will be on stage singing a pretty sexual song with Rita that will get everyone talking.
'But she also knows if she doesn't attend it will be taken as a sign she is not supporting Liam.'
It has been implied that Cheryl is jealous of the amount of time Liam has been spending with Rita during promotion for the single - something her representatives firmly denied.
Pose: Liam also shared footage of the couple playfully posing together ahead of the big show
Funny face: The former One Direction heartthrob pulled a funny face as he and Cheryl mouthed the words to a song together
Shoulder: Cheryl rested a hand on her man's shoulder as they posed up a storm together ahead of the anticipated show
Playful: Pop singer Cheryl also appeared to be in a playful mood as she shared some rare screen time with her boyfriend
Warm: While some have labelled Cheryl and Liam as acting out a stunt, at times, they looked very happy together
All eyes on him: Cheryl looked naturally flawless as she and Liam focused on one another outside
MailOnline has contacted Liam and Cheryl's representatives for comment.
It was claimed last week that the couple's romance was in trouble, less than a year after they welcomed their first child.
The new parents are reportedly struggling to find quality time together as they juggle their busy careers and care for their 11-month-old son, Bear, a source told MailOnline.
The insider claimed their relationship is 'strained', as the former One Direction star is spending nights away from home and touring the world with his solo album, while she looks after their baby son.
Nose: In more footage, Cheryl played with her beau's nose as they relaxed together on a couch
Resting on his lap: She sat with her legs stretched out across Liam's lap during the rare public display of affection
Relaxed and happy: The stars looked relaxed and happy as they cosied up to one another in the private VIP area
How cute: A member of the stars' entourage was heard saying 'awww' as Cheryl brushed Liam's nose
Cheryl is thought to be spending much of her time at home on her own with Bear, because she would rather stay in watching TV than go out to showbiz parties.
The source said: 'Cheryl basically went into hibernation when she got pregnant and has made the decision to be a stay at home mother with no nanny and is looking after bear herself. She doesn't like going out much as she used to.'
While another friend close to the couple added: 'The fact of the matter is, like most young couple's with busy work lives and the demands of an infant they have been struggling to spend time together.
'There are the very real strains of trying to adapt to parenthood whilst being in the spotlight and having to appear as though everything is rosy all of the time.
Staying strong: The singer reportedly knew it wouldn't help to see Liam cosying up to Rita Ora onstage (above), but wanted to support him after being left 'embarrassed' by split rumours
Standing her ground: A source said, '[Cheryl's] really embarrassed about the whole thing. But she also knows if she doesn't attend it will be taken as a sign she is not supporting Liam'
Close friends: The source added, 'It doesn't help that Liam will be on stage singing a pretty sexual song with Rita that will get everyone talking' (pictured with Rita last month)
'It is not real life and is not the life Cheryl and Liam are currently living as a couple.'
It was also reported by The Sun that Liam has spoken to lawyers to see what a split would mean for their shared assets and the care of their son - with Liam holding an estimated £54million fortune, and Cheryl around £20million.
However, the Fight For This Love hitmaker was quick to hit back at the split rumours as she launched Cheryl's Trust Centre on Tuesday.
Following days of speculation, BBC presenter Dan Walker touched upon her love life life at the launch, but a slightly frosty Cheryl appeared keen to deflect discussion away from her relationship.
Close: The couple remained by one another's side throughout the whole evening and were spotted leaving the afterparty some time later
Keeping him close: The couple held hands as they put on a united front to head home
Touching: Cheryl wore roses on her shoes, which is the same design as the tattoo that she and her boyfriend both have inked
Doing their thing: The couple both looked immaculate in their designer get up as all eyes were on them
Showing his love: Liam had a white rose badge pinned on his jacket in support of the Time's Up movement
Happy: Liam wore a big smile on his face as he led his lady to the car
What a gent: Liam made sure Cheryl was OK as she got into the car at the end of the night
She said: '(Talk of my personal life) is not frustrating. It doesn't bother me at all as my focus is solely on this and I've waited seven years and none of that matters - this is most important to me.'
Liam then went on to praise Cheryl for her philanthropy, with a gushing comment on one of her Instagram photos.
The Bedroom Floor is joining a number of high-profile performers at the bash, including Dua Lipa, Ed Sheeran and Justin Timberlake - who was seen enjoying a night out in London on Tuesday night.
The event was hosted by comedian Jack Whitehall, who gave insight into the goings-on backstage on Good Morning Britain, ahead of the bash.
On the rocks: It has been claimed the pair are set to split after spending much of their time apart - with Liam travelling the world, while Cheryl is at home caring for son Bear
Distance: The insider claimed the former One Direction star is spending nights away from home and touring the world with his album (above), while she looks after their baby son
'Struggling to spend time together': Meanwhile Cheryl is thought to be spending much of her time alone at home with Bear, because she would rather stay in than go out to showbiz parties
Speaking to Richard Arnold on Wednesday morning, he joked: 'I walked past Stormzy getting a pedicure. I wondered what that was! His feet were amazing though. Incredible, beautiful feet!'
While he is excited to front proceedings, the Bad Education star admitted he is still nervous about fluffing up his words and jokes.
'I'm slightly apprehensive about it and worried because obviously it's the Brits and it's one of those things where you go, 'Oh what can go wrong?' – I mean, so much could go wrong,' he added.
The BRITs will also see the music industry come together for a performance in tribute to the 22 victims of the Manchester attack at Ariana Grande's concert last May.
Doing her bit: However Cheryl hit back at the split rumours as she launched Cheryl's Trust Centre on Tuesday (above), revealing that the charity project is her 'sole focus'
CHERYL and Liam Payne were all smiles on the Brits red carpet tonight, despite holding crisis talks about their relationship.
The Sun on Sunday revealed how the couple were on the verge of splitting, but they put on a brave face and smiled for the cameras at London's O2 Arena ahead of the ceremony.
AP:Associated Press Cheryl and Liam Payne were all smiles on the Brits red carpet
Cheryl, 34, looked stunning in a black mini dress while carrying a white rose like many of the stars on the red carpet tonight.
Meanwhile Liam, 24, looked dapper in pale blue double breasted jacket and black trousers.
The couple - who have 11-month-old son Bear together - held hands as they posed for pictures, the first time they have been to an official event for months.
The last time they were seen in public together was at the X Factor last year when Liam performed one of his solo tracks and Cheryl watched from the audience.
©Karwai Tang The couple held hands on the red carpet, which was their first public appearance together in months
Rex Features Liam gazed at his girlfriend as she held a white rose
Rex Features Cheryl spoke quietly in Liam's ear at one point
Yesterday, The Sun exclusively revealed how Cheryl would put her relationship woes aside to watch Liam perform with Rita Ora at the awards show.
Liam and Rita performed their raunchy single For You, from the Fifty Shades Freed soundtrack, at the ceremony, and host Jack Whitehall couldn't help but comment on their "chemistry" afterwards.
Snubbing the event would have been seen as confirmation Cheryl has given up on her two-year relationship with the ex-One Direction star.
There have been suggestions she is jealous of the time Liam,has spent travelling with Rita, 27 — which her team have denied.
Rex Features Cheryl looked stunning in a black one shouldered mini dress
Rex Features Meanwhile Liam looked dapper in a pale blue double breasted jacket and black trousers
Rex Features Cheryl gave Liam a look at one point as they headed off the red carpet
A source close to the couple revealed: “Cheryl is desperate not to go to the Brits.
“She knows everyone will be talking about her and Liam, and she’s really embarrassed about the whole thing.
“It doesn’t help that Liam will be on stage singing a pretty sexual song with Rita that will get everyone talking.
Most Read in TV & Showbiz 'CORRIE, YOU CAN'T COME IN' Ryan Thomas reveals he was snubbed by new Neighbours colleagues brit sozzled Holly and Abbey look like they had a good night - but Cheryl & Liam look glum CHIAM ON THE BRINK? Cheryl and Liam ‘barely spoke to each other’ backstage at the Brits LITTLE MAD? Little Mix's Jesy not happy after Jack Whitehall's Jamaican accent dig at Brits FAMILY AFFAIR Liam Gallagher attends same Brits bash as daughter Molly who he's never met I ANT BOTHERED Ant's ex Lisa smiles despite axe from Saturday Night Takeaway over divorce
Rex Features The couple were last seen in public together at the X Factor late last year
PA Liam will perform with Rita Ora at the ceremony
Cheryl and Liam Payne backstage at the BAFTAs lipsync to Timberlake's 'Filthy'
“But she also knows if she doesn’t attend it will be taken as a sign she is not supporting Liam.
“They have both admitted their relationship is in trouble but want to make it work because they have their young son.”
Cheryl and Liam have both refused to deny rumours their relationship is on the rocks, as revealed by The Sun on Sunday.
Celebrities arrive on the red carpet for the 2018 Brit Awards in London
Got a story? email digishowbiz@the-sun.co.uk or call us direct on 02077824220.
We pay for videos too. Click here to upload yours.
CHERYL and Liam Payne set the showbiz world alight when they announced Cheryl had given birth to their first child in March 2017.
A week ago it was revealed their relationship is in crisis, but last night at the Brit Awards the couple put on a united front. Here's the lowdown on what's going on..
Getty Images - Getty Cheryl and Liam Payne were all smiles on the Brit Awards 2018 red carpet
Could Cheryl and Liam really be about to split?
The couple attended the Brit Awards 2018 together and put on a united front despite their relationship crisis.
Cheryl was there to support boyfriend Liam Payne who performed his song For You from the new Fifty Shades Freed film on stage with Rita Ora.
The couple were interviewed at their table by host Jack Whitehall during which Cheryl jokingly revealed her 'safe word'.
Later on the presenter made a cheeky quip about Liam and Rita's hot 'chemistry' after a steamy performance.
However, on February 18, 2018 The Sun on Sunday revealed that despite holding crisis talks about the future of their relationship, pals fear the showbiz couple could be on the verge of splitting.
The 10-year age gap between the two and Liam's pursuit of a solo career are the main reasons believed to be behind the rumours.
A source close to the couple revealed: “There’s a big age gap between them. If they didn’t have Bear then they would have most likely split up by now.
“But they love their son. And they do care for each other so it’s now a matter of seeing if there’s a final way forward to try and make it work.”
Getty Images - WireImage Liam and Cheryl have been having relationship trouble of late
What were the marriage rumours?
In May 2017 Liam sparked rumours he and Cheryl had secretly wed after he described her as his “wife” during a US radio interview.
Meanwhile, Cheryl, 34, has already been married twice before, and according to OK! Magazine, "doesn't want a circus" if and when she weds Liam.
In July 2017 Liam was forced to finally admit that he hasn't married Cheryl, saying he merely refers to Cheryl as "the Mrs" in a colloquial sense.
Liam subsequently hinted he may never marry Cheryl as he says "weddings aren’t for him".
Instagram Cheryl and Liam on a date night
Who was Cheryl married to before?
The former Girls Aloud singer first tied the knot with footballer Ashley Cole in 2006 but the couple split in 2010 following allegations Ashley had been unfaithful.
Their divorce was granted in September of that year.
Cheryl then went on to marry businessman Jean-Bernard Fernandez-Versini in July 2014 after a whirlwind three-month romance.
However the marriage fell apart and after months of speculation, the split was confirmed in January 2016 and the couple were granted a decree nisi in October.
Splash News The singer was also married to Frenchman Jean-Bernard Fernandez-Versini from 2014 until she filed for divorce in January 2016
Who did Liam date before meeting Cheryl?
Being 10 years younger than Cheryl, Liam doesn't have quite the relationship history of his girlfriend but did have some significant relationships before they got together.
The singer dated dancer Danielle Peazer from October 2010 until May 2013.
He then quickly moved on to a new relationship with Sophia Smith, who he had known since primary school.
The couple dated until October 2015, just weeks before he got together with Cheryl.
Getty Images Liam previously dated Sophia Smith for over two years
How did Cheryl and Liam Payne meet?
The pair first met all the way back in 2008 on the set of the X Factor, where 14-year-old Liam's first audition earns him praise from his future partner, as well as calling him "cute".
Liam returned to the show in 2010 as a 16-year-old and became part of One Direction, impressing Cheryl with his talents once again.
The pair are believed to have become a couple in December 2015 after One Direction performed on the X Factor for the final time, with the couple snapped sharing a hug and dancing together.
The Sun then exclusively confirmed their relationship in February 2016.
ITV The pair first met in 2008 when Liam, then 14, auditioned for The X Factor and winked at her
What have Cheryl and Liam Payne called their baby boy?
The Sun revealed on May 1, 2017 that the couple named their son Bear after spending a week getting to know him.
Baby Bear also took his One Direction star dad’s surname.
A source revealed: “Cheryl and Liam wanted to get to know their baby before deciding on a name.
“They didn’t have the name Bear before the birth.
Instagram Proud dad Liam Payne has revealed baby son Bear's nickname is Cub
“But they’d been thinking of a name since meeting him and they just felt it suited him.
“They love their little baby Bear Payne and are truly over the moon and loving being parents for the first time together.”
Liam has opened up on “making a human” with Cheryl – calling it his proudest achievement.
latest on cheryl CHERYL'S TOYBOY The FULL lowdown on Cheryl and Liam Payne's relationship – and the age gap WHAT'S IN A NAME? Here's all you need to know about Cheryl and Liam Payne's baby Bear TOP OF THE TOTS Liam Payne and Cheryl teach 7-month-old son Bear to speak Spanish ONE'S YOUR LOT Cheryl tells Liam Payne she's 'not ready for another baby' after he admitted he wanted a second child COULDN'T BEAR TO LEAVE Cheryl and Liam Payne deny they're quitting the UK for a life in Hollywood with baby Bear BOUNCE BACK BODY Cheryl is back to a size six after daily workouts, yoga during baby Bear's naps and a low carb diet BACK TO WORK Cheryl to 'fly to America to record fifth album' following first public appearance after maternity leave mummy bear's back! Cheryl shows off her slim post-baby body just five months after giving birth as she's spotted in public signing autographs for fans LIAM PLOTS TOT TAT Liam Payne 'planning large chest tattoo' to mark becoming a dad to son Bear with long-term girlfriend Cheryl Dad date Liam Payne reveals he didn't meet Cheryl's father until she was pregnant with their son Bear high steaks Liam Payne reveals 'mother-in-law' Joan jokingly 'waved a knife' at him when he ordered a £300 steak for dinner NO MORE mum tum Liam Payne reveals Cheryl has lost all her baby weight just two months after giving birth to son Bear
Has Cheryl changed her name back to her maiden name?
Cheryl's surname has changed many times over the years, due to her being married twice.
First she was Cheryl Tweedy (her maiden name) , then she changed it to Cheryl Cole when she married Ashley Cole, then she was Cheryl Fernandez Versini, during her short=lived marriage to Jean-Bernard Fernandez-Versini.
After she divorced the Frenchman she simply went by"Cheryl".
Now, The Sun can reveal that she has officially changed her name back to Cheryl Tweedy.
CHERYL and Liam Payne might have put on a united display on the red carpet but the pair "barely spoke to each other backstage," The Sun Online can exclusively reveal.
The couple took to the red carpet together despite holding crisis talks about their relationship.
Rex Features Cheryl and Liam 'barely spoke' backstage despite untied front on the red carpet
The Sun on Sunday revealed how the couple were on the verge of splitting, but they put on a brave face and smiled for the cameras at London's O2 Arena ahead of the ceremony.
During the awards show they had a cheeky chat with host Jack Whitehall in which Cheryl revealed the couple's "safe word".
However, despite the banter on live TV, things were strained behind the scenes.
Onlookers said the couple, who are parents to son Bear, didn't chat very much and things seemed "strained" between them.
Rex Features Cheryl and Liam spent the night surrounded by their entourages
A source told The Sun Online: "Backstage, both Cheryl and Liam looked very tense - everyone was staring at them and they were both surrounded by their massive entourages.
"They barely spoke when they were waiting backstage - occasionally, Cheryl would whisper into Liam's ear, but they were mainly speaking to the people around them."
The pair also shared some sexy snaps and a video of them singing together from backstage at the awards.
However, pals said the apparent shows of affection were all a stunt.
Rex Features Pals said their shows off affection were a stunt
Rex Features Cheryl looked downcast as they left the Universal bash
A source told The Sun: “Cheryl and Liam’s friends say things are not good between them and have made it clear their relationship will soon end.
“They are trying to work things out and want to be together for Bear’s first birthday which is next month but things are very strained.”
Take a look back at some of the 2018 Brit Awards best bits
However, they did give the audience a laugh earlier in the night when Jack Whitehall referenced the fact Liam was going to be singing his duet with Rita Ora from the latest Fifty Shades of Grey movie later on.
He said: "You're performing later, you're doing a song from the Fifty Shades of Grey movie.
Cheryl Tweedy reveals bedroom safety word to Jack Whitehall at the 2018 Brit Awards
ITV Cheryl and Liam Payne were interviewed by Jack Whitehall at tonight's Brit Awards
"Sounds pretty saucy, is there a safe word?"
As Liam chuckled, he threw the question to Cheryl, 34, saying: "She knows that," and as Jack stuck the microphone in her face, Cheryl replied: "Don't stop".
ITV Liam was shocked by Cheryl's reply
ITV Liam laughed while Jack looked surprised by the cheeky response
Instagram Cheryl and Liam posed backstage - but pals say their affection is a stunt
Cheryl and Liam Payne backstage at the BAFTAs lipsync to Timberlake's 'Filthy'
A body language expert also exclusively told The Sun Online about what's really going on between the pair during their "forced" red carpet appearance.
As she arrived on the red carpet, Cheryl, 34, looked stunning in a black mini dress while carrying a white rose to represent the Times Up movement.
Getty - Contributor Cheryl and Liam put on a brave front in the first public outing despite holding crisis talks about their relationship
Cheryl and Liam Payne pose up together on red carpet as pair arrive at the Brits
MOST READ IN TV & SHOWBIZ 'CORRIE, YOU CAN'T COME IN' Ryan Thomas reveals he was snubbed by new Neighbours colleagues brit sozzled Holly and Abbey look like they had a good night - but Cheryl & Liam look glum LITTLE MAD? Little Mix's Jesy not happy after Jack Whitehall's Jamaican accent dig at Brits FAMILY AFFAIR Liam Gallagher attends same Brits bash as daughter Molly who he's never met I ANT BOTHERED Ant's ex Lisa smiles despite axe from Saturday Night Takeaway over divorce
Liam, 24, looked dapper in pale blue double breasted jacket and black trousers.
The couple - who have 11-month-old son Bear together - held hands as they posed for pictures, the first time they have been to an official event for months.
The last time they were seen in public together was at the X Factor last year when Liam performed one of his solo tracks and Cheryl watched from the audience.
Cheryl and Liam Payne dance as the BRITs is about to start
Got a story? email digishowbiz@the-sun.co.uk or call us direct on 02077824220.
We pay for videos too. Click here to upload yours.
