Katy Perry Makes the World Cry With Her Support of an Orlando Survivor on Ellen

Are you done crying over Sia’s emotional Orlando tribute video? Then get ready to cry all over again with Katy Perry, because Orlando survivor Tony Marrero appeared on Ellen this week only to get the surprise of a lifetime.

Marrero survived the deadly June attack at the Pulse nightclub in Orlando that claimed the lives of 49 innocent people. He was shot four times, and lost his best friend in the shooting, but managed to escape alive. Ellen DeGeneres brought him on her show to talk about his experience. Here’s an extended clip from the show in which he tells his story:
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If you can make it through that without tearing up, you should probably get your tear ducts checked. Marrero’s courage and perseverance is truly inspiring. If the first part of Ellen’s appearance with Marrero brought you to tears, prepare for the second part to make you a full-blown emotional wreck.

After a break, Ellen returned to ask Marrero a few more questions — and send him off with an incredible surprise. Here’s the video that has everyone talking (and weeping):
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In the video, Marrero says listening to Katy Perry’s “Rise” helped him get through the recovery process. Then, in what might be the only genuine talk show surprise we’ve ever seen, Ellen introduces him to Katy Perry herself.

After some hugging and crying, Katy reveals the reason for her appearance: she’s going to pay for a year of college for Marrero. Though no one knows what the road ahead may carry for Marrero and everyone else affected by the Orlando shooting, it’s great to know that there’s still some goodness in this world.