Shawn Mendes has issued an apology after misgendering Sam Smith at the Jingle Bell Ball this week.

The 'Wonder' singer was introducing Smith, who identifies as "they" and "them", at the annual event when he repeatedly referred to them as "he".

Having been alerted to his mistake, Mendes issued a message of apology on social media saying: "Oh @samsmith I'm so sorry for referring to you as a 'he' for your jingle ball introduction.

"It absolutely slipped my mind. Wont happen again..Sending you so much love !

"Also you absolutely are one of the funniest people I've ever met."

Smith, who came out as non-binary in March 2019, reposted Mendes's message alongside the words: "We're all learning together. Happy holidays, all my love xx."