Simon Cowell reportedly made a joke about Zayn Malik, which was uncalled for, while making his acceptance speech at the recent 24th Music Industry Trust Awards on Monday. The "X-Factor" mogul made One Direction awkward with his speech while he managed to make some of the audience laugh.

Liam Payne, Niall Horan, Harry Styles and Louis Tomlinson presented their "boss" Simon with the MIT awards up on stage in recognition of his contribution to the music industry. The boys remained standing up on stage with Simon, as he gave his acceptance speech. According to Mail Online, Simon cracked a joke about Zayn, which left the One Direction guys feeling rather awkward.

"Just my luck I get the award I've been wanting all my life and I'm completely hammered. Guys, who misses Zayn?" Simon reportedly said to a stunned crowd.

Some members of the audience reportedly laughed at his remark. However, Niall, Harry, Louis and Liam stood awkwardly silent on the stage, according to Mail Online.

Prior to his acceptance speech, Liam and Louis each gave their introductory speech to honor Simon. In the video shared by Mail Online, Liam is heard thanking the "X-Factor" mogul for being instrumental in One Direction's success.

"When we started on X Factor we could never have imagined how Simon would change our lives," Liam had said as quoted by Mail Online.

Meanwhile Louis spoke from personal experience. The father-to-be thanked Simon for being humble and approachable.

Zayn Malik's exit from One Direction in March was riddled with intrigue. Some reports claimed he wanted out so he can pursue a solo career. Zayn also talked about living so he could live the normal life of a 22-year old. But not long after he expressed his wish to live a normal life, he signed a music deal with RCA records. Zayn had announced his collaboration with the recording company on his Twitter page in a series of tweets.

A source told The Sun that Simon had since accepted Zayn's exit from One Direction and his decision to go solo. In response, the 56-year-old dropped Zayn from his Syco label. The source claimed Simon did this as a show of loyalty to the remaining members of One Direction.

"It's a big move for Simon because Zayn could have a very successful solo career but his priority absolutely remains the band and this is a big statement on his part. Zayn will stay in the Sony family under a different label and it's totally with Simon Cowell's blessing," the source said.