Céline Dion Holds Back Tears During Late Husband René’s Las Vegas Tribute— ‘I Feel The Love In This Room’

Céline Dion paid tribute to her late husband and “love of her life” René Angélil during an emotional Las Vegas memorial. She could hardly hold back her tears as she spoke about their time together, career, and family life.

The public memorial took place at Caesars Palace’s Colosseum in Las Vegas on Jan. 3. Eldest son Rene-Charles and his three children from his first marriage joined the singer onstage.

“I was never part of any of the meetings that he had where he had to say yes or no. He protected me from Day one to for the rest of my life, I am pretty sure of that,” she said of their unbreakable relationship. Rene died of throat cancer on January 14 at 73 years old. He and Celine were married for 21 years.

Celine thanked everyone for their support— “The love of my life ... would be so happy to know we are all here together telling stories, sharing memories, playing some of his favorite music. And especially in this beautiful theater which many years ago was one of his dreams come true.”

Celine and Rene met when she was just 12 years old. He signed on to be her mentor/manager as he saw unparalleled potential in the young girl.

There was also a special performance from friend, writer, and producer David Foster.