Love Island star Mike Thalassitis has died at the age of 26.
The shock news was first reported by tabloid newspapers on Saturday evening before being confirmed by his management to the Press Association news agency.
A spokesman for ITV, which produces Love Island, said: “Everyone at ITV2 and Love Island are shocked and saddened by this terrible news. Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with Mike’s family and friends at this very sad time.”
The cause of Mike’s death has not been confirmed.
Many of his fellow Islanders soon shared emotional tributes on Twitter.
“My thoughts are with Mike’s family,” Jack Fincham wrote. “A lovely bloke gone far too soon. Rest in peace mate.”
Some also criticised the initial report for referring to Mike by the nickname he earned during his time on Love Island.
“His name is Mike Thalassitis,” Olvia Buckland wrote. “All the articles how dare you not use his real name. This is horrendous. I’m in shock.
“Mike you are going to be sorely sorely missed. My heart is with your family. I’m in complete shock.”
Mike was a late entry to the Love Island villa in the 2017 series and briefly coupled up with Olivia Attwood to begin with.
During his time in the villa, he was involved in an infamous love triangle with Olivia Atwood and Chris Hughes, and ruffled feathers by going on to couple up with Olivia.
When the pair split, he was dumped from the show after only five days, only to return alongside Sam Gowland weeks later.
Mike went on to couple up with Tyla Carr, but was voted off the show after another five-day stint.
After finding fame on Love Island, Mike remained in the public eye and appeared on the 2018 series of Celebs Go Dating.
Prior to his reality TV appearances, Mike was a professional footballer and played for numerous league and non-league clubs.
When he signed up for Love Island, he was still part of the team at Margate FC.
