James ‘Arg’ Argent said he could feel the “presence” of The Wanted star Tom Parker at his funeral.
Parker was laid to rest in Petts Wood, London, on Wednesday following his death last month at the age of 33 from brain cancer.
Family and friends attended a private church service while fans lined the streets to bid an emotional final farewell to the Gold Forever hit-maker.
Reflecting on the experience during an appearance on Good Morning Britain on Thursday, Arg – who was friends with Parker after appearing on TV shows The Jump and The Real Full Monty together – described the send off as “extremely sad” but “beautiful”.
'We all adored him.'@RealJamesArgent recalls 'the amazing memories' he created with Tom Parker.
— Good Morning Britain (@GMB) April 21, 2022
He also tells @kategarraway and @richardpbacon how Tom supported him during his own difficult times. pic.twitter.com/RbVl5pjld8
Speaking to hosts Kate Garraway and Richard Bacon, he said: "It was extremely sad at times - it was tough for everyone, however there were really special beautiful moments throughout the day and it really felt like Tom’s presence was there.
“It couldn’t have gone any better. The sun was shining.”
The former TOWIE star also revealed that he had asked Parker’s widow, Kelsey Hardwick, if it was ok if he came onto the ITV breakfast show.
He added: "I checked with Kelsey and she was really keen on me coming on. She didn’t want me to just talk about me and Tom’s friendship, just the fact of how much of an incredible person he was."
Arg has previously shared a tribute online to Parker, who he credited as having helped him through “tough times”.
The Essex native has been open in the past about his struggles with alcohol and drug addiction and hailed his late pal as “kind, caring and fun”.
He wrote: “A truly Lovely and Beautiful man who was so Strong & Positive. I’m so grateful for all the memories I have with you & the quality time we spent together.
“From those weeks in Austria taking part in The Jump to us both stripping off and getting butt naked live on TV for The Real Full Monty.
“Performing together at your stag do is something I’ll never forget and always cherish. Being at both your engagement and baby party meant the world to me.
“You and @being_kelsey have been great friends to me. All those video calls and advice you gave me really helped me through tough times.
“You & Kelsey are the definition of soulmates, The most solid & perfectly matched couple I’ve ever known. Your beautiful children will know how much of a legend there Dad was.”
He signed off the post with: “I miss & love you mate.”
