The latest episode of Celebs Go Dating ended with a tribute to former contestant Mike Thalassitis, following his death over the weekend.
The Love Island star took part in the fourth series of Celebs Go Dating last year, alongside stars like Made In Chelsea’s Sam Thompson and Ollie Locke, comedian London Hughes and reality veteran Gemma Collins.
As the show aired for the first time since his death on Sunday night, the episode was dedicated to him, with a card flashing up at the end of the closing titles reading: “In memory of Mike Thalassitis 1993-2019.”
A number of his Celebs Go Dating co-stars have also been paying their respects.
Mike was found dead in a park near his home on Saturday morning, with police later confirming that his death was not being treated as suspicious.
The tragedy has led to a conversation among Love Island fans and former contestants about whether there is a need for more after-care for those who take part in the hit ITV2 show.
A spokesperson for the show has since told HuffPost UK: “Care for our Islanders is a process the show takes very seriously and is a continuous process for all those taking part in the show.
“We ensure that all of our contributors are able to access psychological support before, during and after appearing on the show. The programme will always provide ongoing support when needed and where appropriate.
“We also discuss at length with all of our Islanders, before and after the show, how their lives might change and they have access to support and advice to help with this.”
Useful websites and helplines:
- Mind, open Monday to Friday, 9am-6pm on 0300 123 3393
- Samaritans offers a listening service which is open 24 hours a day, on 116 123 (UK and ROI - this number is FREE to call and will not appear on your phone bill.)
- The Mix is a free support service for people under 25. Call 0808 808 4994 or email: help@themix.org.uk
- Rethink Mental Illness offers practical help through its advice line which can be reached on 0300 5000 927 (open Monday to Friday 10am-4pm). More info can be found on www.rethink.org.
