Young pop singer Lily Allen received a very public dressing down from industry veteran Sir Elton John last night as the pair hosted the GQ Men of the Year Awards.
In front of an audience comprising the crème of the entertainment world, the 23-year-old chart-topper sipped champagne on stage until she began slurring and swearing.
When Allen told the audience at London’s Royal Opera House “now we reach a very special point in the evening”, Sir Elton replied: “What, you are going to have another drink?”
Allen, dressed demurely in a full-length ball gown, responded: “F*** off Elton, I’m 40 years younger than you, I have my whole life ahead of me.”
The 61-year-old superstar, watched by audience members including Gordon Ramsay, Thandie Newton and Elle MacPherson, then told her: “I could still snort you under the table.”
She replied: “F*** off. I don’t know what you are talking about.”
Allen also indulged in a bout of boorish ad libbing as 82-year-old crooner Tony Bennett was awarded the Inspiration Award. Sir Elton introduced him, referencing his age, to which Allen interrupted: “I’ll still f*** him.”