Aussie stars react to the Sydney siege

Aussie stars joined the nation as we watched Sydney's hostage drama unfold. Photo: Getty Images

United in their grief, even the most seasoned Australian celebrities are reeling with shock in the horrifying wake of the Sydney siege.

For Larry Emdur, it started just like any other Monday as he presented The Morning Show alongside co-host 'Kylie Gillies.

But as The X Factor winner Marlisa began performing her song, the day quickly descended into terrifying chaos just metres across the road.

"Police came charging into the plaza from every direction," a shocked Larry recalled.

"Every which way you looked out of our studio, police cars and motorbikes were skidding to a halt, police in uniforms, in board shorts and T-shirts, in jeans and sneakers were swarming, wrestling themselves into their Kevlar vests as they scrambled around the plaza… Guns drawn, they all had their guns drawn…

"Then the sight I will never ever forget, as Kylie pointed across the plaza, we saw people standing in the windows of Lindt cafe.

"Two people per window, each with their hands above their heads pressed firmly against the glass.

"We could see the hostages, we could see the perpetrator, we could hear police moving through our building and then we could see that flag.

Remembering that horrific moment, Larry said: "Both our hearts were breaking as we looked to the faces of the hostages pressed against the windows.

"It was an absolutely, totally helpless feeling.

"I don't know how I'll feel when I look out of our studio window at the Lindt cafe, I'll never forget those hands and faces and flag pressed against the window, I don't think any of us will," Larry wrote on The Morning Show website.

Two hostages – Katrina Dawson and Tori Johnson – were killed in the 17-hour siege, along with the gunman, Man Haron Moniss.

Larry and Kylie weren’t the only ones to be left visibly shaken – Sunrise host Nat Barr broke down live on air as she realised Katrina, the mother-of-three who lost her life in the tragedy, was the sister of a friend.

"I’m just finding out Katrina Dawson was the sister of a prominent barrister, Sandy Dawson, who has done some work at Channel Seven," Nat stuttered.

"Sandy Dawson, who I know and I have friends who know. A mother of three children. I’m just finding this out this morning.

"When you put the faces to the people who have died overnight, it’s just heartbreaking.

"And even though they were far from home, other Aussie stars took to Twitter with a series of heartfelt messages to reach out to those affected by the siege.

Russell Crowe wrote: "My thoughts go out to the hostages and their families, and to the police and emergency services personnel."

Australian singer Cody Simpson: "So utterly saddened and terrified that my homeland is going through this crisis. Sending my love. Bring peace back to Aus."

Actor Rachael Taylor: "Love, prayers and respects to the victims and their loved ones. Just heartbreaking."

TV presenter Jesinta Campbell: "Such dreadful news to wake up to. All of my love goes to those that were involved. Such a sad time for humanity."

Actress Yvonne Strahovski: "United in overcoming intolerance and hate. Absolutely moved by this #illridewithyou."

Radio host Fifi Box: "One evil man represents no one. Anyone who feels scared because of their religious beliefs #illridewithyou anytime, anywhere."

Model Cheyenne Tozzi: "I hope everyone is safe please look after one another. #prayforsydney."

Actress Rebel Wilson: ‘"Thinking of everyone in Sydney today x."

TV presenter Magdalena Roze: "Unimaginable day of grief. My heart is with you Sydney #sydneysiege."

Though the city and its people have been rocked by this terrible tragedy, one thing is for certain: Sydney will rise again.

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