Céline Dion Breaks Down During Emotional Tribute to René Angélil

On Wednesday night, Céline Dion mustered enough strength to speak for nearly 20 minutes at a tribute for late husband René Angélil at the Colosseum at Caesars Palace.

It was the first time that Dion spoke publicly since Angélil's death last month. She told the audience with great emotion, "This is my home away from home. At the same time, I'm supposed to feel extremely comfortable being home and right now I'm not sure how comfortable I feel.”

Céline also showed her appreciation for the support by thanking those who paid tribute to Angélil, saying, "I feel his love in this room. I feel his strength and his warmth being reflected in all of you. René always surrounded me with the best people who believed in us and always worked so hard on our behalf."

During her speech, the 47-year-old reflected on how Angélil shielded her from the harsh reality of show business. She said, "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 for the rest of my life, I am pretty sure of that.”

Dion also shined the spotlight on what a kind man Angélil was. "René never hated anyone. Is it possible someone loves everybody? I don't think so. But he never told me a person he disliked. Time was precious to him. He loved life so much, so very much."

Before stepping off the stage, she closed, "On behalf of my family, thank you again for being here with us this evening for this beautiful tribute to mon amour. René I love you, so much. Merci. Good night."