Lea Michele Makes Emotional First Appearance

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Lea Michele broke down in tears during her first public appearance at Sunday night's Teen Choice Awards following the sudden death of her boyfriend and Glee co-star, Cory Monteith.

Michele, 26, first took the stage to receive the award for Best Actress: TV Comedy for her role as Rachel Berry on FOX's hit show Glee.

RELATED PICS: Remembering Cory Monteith

After a warm reception from the audience, the actress gave an emotional acceptance speech, thanking Glee fans for their unyielding support in the wake of Monteith's sudden passing at age 31 this past July due to a drug overdose.

"I just wanted to be here today to personally thank all of you and tell everyone out there how much all of your love and support has meant to me over these very past difficult [sic] weeks," a teary-eyed Michele said.


RELATED: Cory Monteith Cause of Death Revealed

"Not that I had any doubt before, but you guys are most certainly the greatest fans in the world. I wanted to dedicate this award to Cory. For all of you out there who loved and admired Cory as much as I did, I promise that with your love we're going to get through this together.

"He was very special to me and also to the world and we were very lucky to witness his incredible talent, his handsome smile, and his beautiful, beautiful heart. So, whether you knew him personally or just as Finn Hudson, Cory reached out and he became a part of all of our hearts and that's where he'll stay forever. So, thank you guys so much. Thank you."

RELATED VIDEO: Flashback: Cory and Lea Flirt on Glee Set

Michele was embraced by her Glee cast mates as she concluded her speech. An image of the late Monteith was then projected onto the stage.