Content warning: This article deals with suicide and may be triggering for some.
Emotional tributes have begun to pour in following the heartbreaking death of former Love Island UK and X Factor host Caroline Flack, who was found dead in her London home.
A lawyer for her family said the TV presenter, aged 40, took her own life.
Her family shared a statement that said, “We can confirm that our Caroline passed away today on the 15th February. We would ask that the press both respect the privacy of the family at this difficult time.”
In one of the presenter’s final posts on Instagram she wrote, “Been advised not to go on social media… but I wanted to say happy Christmas to everyone who has been so incredibly kind to me this year… this kind of scrutiny and speculation is a lot to take on for one person to take on their own.”
“I’m a human being at the end of the day and I’m not going to be silenced when I have a story to tell and a life to keep going with …. I’m taking some time out to get feeling better and learn some lessons from situations I’ve got myself into to. I have nothing but love to give and best wishes for everyone.”
Love Island released a statement on Twitter which read, “Everybody at Love Island and ITV is shocked and saddened by this desperately sad news.
“Caroline was a much loved member of the Love Island team and our sincere thoughts and condolences are with her family and friends.”
— Love Island (@LoveIsland) February 15, 2020
This is sadly the third death of a Love Island star, with contestants Mike Thalassitis and Sophie Gradon also passing away in 2019 and 2018 respectively.
Flack’s passing comes weeks before she was set to go on trial for assaulting partner Lewis Burton, who accused her of hitting him, but later backtracked on the claims.
Flack was banned from contacting Burton, but he posted a photo of them together on Valentine’s Day, writing, “Happy Valentine’s… Love You.”
Tributes for the presenter have begun flowing in.
According to Sky News, Francis Ridley of Money Talent Management said in a statement, “We are devastated at the loss of our client and friend Caroline Flack.
“An immensely talented young woman who was at the top of her game professionally and loved by television viewers across the country.
“In recent months Caroline had been under huge pressure because of an ongoing case and potential trial which has been well reported.
“The Crown Prosecution Service pursued this when they knew not only how very vulnerable Caroline was but also that the alleged victim did not support the prosecution and had disputed the CPS version of events.
“The CPS should look at themselves today and how they pursued a show trial that was not only without merit but not in the public interest. And ultimately resulted in significant distress to Caroline.
“Our thoughts are with Caroline’s family at this time.”
Former Love Island star Katy McDermott spoke of Flack’s kindness, “Devastated to hear the news about Caroline Flack. Caroline was nothing but kind to me and that’s how I will always remember her.
“Saddens me so much when people think the only way out is death. My prayers and thoughts go out to Caroline’s friends and family.”
Devastated to here the news about Caroline Flack. Caroline was nothing but kind to me and that’s how I will always remember her. Saddens me so much when people think the only way out is death. My prayers and thoughts go out to Caroline’s friends and family. Heartbreaking
— Kady Mcdermott (@kadymcdermottx) February 15, 2020
Presenting duo Ant and Dec tweeted, “We are both devastated to hear the news about Caroline Flack. It is beyond sad. Beyond words. So tragic. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family. Rest In Peace Caroline.”
Singer Boy George wrote, “I hope all of you who attacked Caroline Flack even when her partner said he wanted no charges feel some sorrow today. This did not need to happen. This is devastating news! And yes, I hope the @cpsuk feel even deeper sorrow.”
I hope all of you who attacked Caroline Flack even when her partner said he wanted no charges feel some sorrow today. This did not need to happen. This is devastating news! And yes, I hope the @cpsuk feel even deeper sorrow.
— Boy George (Boomer) (@BoyGeorge) February 15, 2020
Actor Chris O’Dowd said, “Caroline was so fun. She had the best cackle of a laugh. She deserved so much better. She’s gone far too soon. My heart goes out to her sister Jo and the family. You’ll be so missed darlin, by so many.”
Boyzone’s Mikey Graham tweeted, “Just heard the devastating news about the passing of Caroline Flack.What amazes me is that while the world is trying to highlight and help mental illness the press editors make money from destroying these sensitive souls. Hope you reflect on your deeds now. #Bloodonyourhands.”
Just heard the devastating news about the passing of Caroline Flack.What amazes me is that while the world is trying to highlight and help mental illness the press editors make money from destroying these sensitive souls. Hope you reflect on your deeds now. #Bloodonyourhands.
— Mikey Graham (@MRMIKEYGRAHAM) February 15, 2020
Emmerdale star Laura Norton added, “How tragic and devastating. I feel so sad hearing about Caroline Flack. I can’t bear to think of how much pain she must’ve been in. Scrutinised, Vilified, bombarded and made to feel like there was no other way and nothing left to live for. Please talk. And just BE KIND.”
Radio presenter Liz Kershaw said, “Heartbreaking that #CarolineFlack found dead. She lost her boyfriend, reputation & job. And all before she’d even been tried or convicted. What happened to innocent until proven guilty or us all being woke and sympathetic to mental health?
ITV & tabloids: hang your heads in shame.”
If you or anyone you know is suffering from their mental health, know there is help out there. Call Lifeline on 13 11 14 for 24-hour crisis support. If it’s an emergency, call 000.