Former Love Island star Mike Thalassitis died by suicide, an inquest heard on Wednesday morning.
Thalassitis was found dead in March at the age of 26, with the inquest taking place more than two months later, at North London Coroner’s Court.
Coroner Andrew Walker concluded that Thalassitis took his own life, after consuming a mixture of alcohol and cocaine.
He also noted there was evidence that Thalassitis had “clearly set out his intention that his life should come to an end”.
The inquest was attended by the late reality star’s parents, Shirley and Andy and his brother, Nick, as well as former Love Island co-star Montana Brown.
Thalassitis’ death – as well as that of fellow Love Island star Sophie Gradon, who a coroner also ruled had taken her own life – led to a widespread debate about the support offered by the ITV2 reality series after those involved leave the show.
This discussion brought about a number of changes to their aftercare processes for the new series including new financial and social media training.
Contestants on this year’s series will also have to attend a minimum of eight therapy sessions after leaving the Island, while producers have said they will also take a more proactive approach in reaching out to participants.
A new series of Love Island launched on Monday night, with a tribute to Thalassitis being shown at the end of an episode.
Beneath a photo of him set against a black background, a message read: “In loving memory of Mike Thalassitis 1993-2019”
Prior to his death, Thalassitis had recorded an appearance on the MTV reality show Ex On The Beach, though the broadcaster has said they will not be airing the series in which he stars.
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.
