Caroline Flack dies by suicide: Laura Whitmore and Iain Stirling pay tribute


Laura Whitmore and Iain Stirling have posted heartbreaking tributes to their close friend Caroline Flack after the presenter was found dead in her London flat at the age of 40, by her father.

Laura led the celebrity tributes as she tweeted a throwback image with her friend along with an emotional poem, which she captioned: ‘I’m trying to find the words but I can’t.’

Iain, 32, shared a clip of Caroline on Strictly Come Dancing, performing to Angels, captioning it: ‘Today my friend slow motion walked into heaven. I will miss her always. Thank you for everything x’

'I'm trying to find the words but I can't': Laura Whitmore has posted a heartbreaking tribute to her close friend Caroline Flack after the presenter was found dead in her London flat at the age of 40

‘I’m trying to find the words but I can’t’: Laura Whitmore has posted a heartbreaking tribute to her close friend Caroline Flack after the presenter was found dead in her London flat at the age of 40

Comedian Iain provides the satirical voice-over commentary for Love Island, and did so alongside Caroline, who presented the series, for five years.

Laura – Iain’s girlfriend – took over from Caroline when she stepped down from hosting duties following an assault charge at the end of last year.

The poem 34-year-old Laura shared read: ‘To lose someone so special is really hard to bear, it hardly seems believable that you’re no longer there. You left us far too early before your time, it seems and now you’ll never have the chance to fulfill all those dreams.

‘However hard it is though we’ll take comfort in the thought of all the memories we have and the happiness you brought. You always lived life to the full but ours won’t be the same until the day when we can see your smiling face again.’

Close pals: On Instagram Laura also shared a video from a night out with Caroline

Close pals: On Instagram Laura also shared a video from a night out with Caroline

Loving it: The pair were clearly having a fantastic time as they danced the night away

Loving it: The pair were clearly having a fantastic time as they danced the night away

Close pals: On Instagram Laura also shared a video from a night out with Caroline, with the pair clearly having a fantastic time as they danced the night away

On Instagram Laura also shared a video from a night out with Caroline, with the pair clearly having a fantastic time as they danced the night away. 

When Caroline stood down from this season of Love Island, Laura posted a tribute to her at the time to say: ‘To say I’m excited to be heading to Cape Town to host Love Island, the biggest show on television, is an understatement. I want to thank ITV for trusting me at the helm of this huge show.

‘I wish it was in better circumstances; Caroline is a brilliant host and also a friend. We’ve spoken a lot in the last few days since she stepped down. She has been very kind to me and strongly pushed me for this role.

Standing in: Laura took over from Caroline when she stepped down from hosting duties following an assault charge at the end of last year

Standing in: Laura took over from Caroline when she stepped down from hosting duties following an assault charge at the end of last year

Standing in: Laura took over from Caroline when she stepped down from hosting duties following an assault charge at the end of last year

'I will miss her always': Iain, 32, shared a clip of Caroline on Strictly Come Dancing, performing to Angels, captioning it: 'Today my friend slow motion walked into heaven. I will miss her always. Thank you for everything x'

'I will miss her always': Iain, 32, shared a clip of Caroline on Strictly Come Dancing, performing to Angels, captioning it: 'Today my friend slow motion walked into heaven. I will miss her always. Thank you for everything x'

‘I will miss her always’: Iain, 32, shared a clip of Caroline on Strictly Come Dancing, performing to Angels, captioning it: ‘Today my friend slow motion walked into heaven. I will miss her always. Thank you for everything x’

The poem 34-year-old Laura shared began: 'To lose someone so special is really hard to bear, it hardly seems believable that you’re no longer there'

The poem 34-year-old Laura shared began: 'To lose someone so special is really hard to bear, it hardly seems believable that you’re no longer there'

The poem 34-year-old Laura shared began: ‘To lose someone so special is really hard to bear, it hardly seems believable that you’re no longer there’

‘I’ve watched her host every series and know I have big boots to fill. I will try and do it justice.’

Whilst Caroline said at the time: ‘I’m glad it’s Laura … she loves the show as much as I do … again … thank you for you continuous messages of support … it’s a really rough time … but I’m doing all can to keep my head above the water and sort this all out … (sic)’

Other celebrities have paid tribute to the much loved star on Twitter and Instagram, including the cast of Love Island and Strictly Come Dancing, which she won in 2014. 

Piers Morgan wrote on Twitter: ‘Caroline was a fun, bright & sparky person whose whole world collapsed recently, both professionally & personally. 

‘She told me it had been the worst time of her life, and was clearly struggling to cope with losing everything she held dear. This is such sad, awful news.’

This Morning presenter Eamonn Holmes wrote on Twitter: ‘Caroline Flack …. Dear God. Shocked beyond belief. May she have found peace. #Rip Has to be repercussions for Love Island now surely?’ 

Eamonn’s comment follows former contestants Mike Thalassitis and Sophie Gradon who both took their own lives after appearing on the show.

Made in Chelsea star Lucy Watson penned: ‘Social media has given us too much access to hate on others. People we don’t even know. Real people, just like you or I. RIP Caroline’ 

Big Brother star Channelle Mcleary wrote: ‘RIP Caroline flack. Yes she made some mistakes which were unfortunately in the public eye but she didn’t deserve this.

This Morning presenter Eamonn Holmes wrote on Twitter: 'Caroline Flack .... Dear God. Shocked beyond belief. May she have found peace. #Rip Has to be repercussions for Love Island now surely?'

This Morning presenter Eamonn Holmes wrote on Twitter: 'Caroline Flack .... Dear God. Shocked beyond belief. May she have found peace. #Rip Has to be repercussions for Love Island now surely?'

This Morning presenter Eamonn Holmes wrote on Twitter: ‘Caroline Flack …. Dear God. Shocked beyond belief. May she have found peace. #Rip Has to be repercussions for Love Island now surely?’

Boy George: '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.' Interior designer Kelly Hoppen replied to this: So very well said so sad'

Boy George: '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.' Interior designer Kelly Hoppen replied to this: So very well said so sad'

Boy George: ‘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.’ Interior designer Kelly Hoppen replied to this: So very well said so sad’

Paying tribute: Piers Morgan paid an emotional tribute to the star on Twitter where he described her as a 'fun, bright & sparky person whose whole world collapsed recently'

Paying tribute: Piers Morgan paid an emotional tribute to the star on Twitter where he described her as a 'fun, bright & sparky person whose whole world collapsed recently'

Paying tribute: Piers Morgan paid an emotional tribute to the star on Twitter where he described her as a ‘fun, bright & sparky person whose whole world collapsed recently’ 

‘All the abuse she received. How many more life’s are going to be taken before people realise it is not ok to treat others this way. These are real people!’

Boy George typed: ‘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.’

Interior designer Kelly Hoppen replied to this: ‘So very well said so sad!’

Cheryl penned: ‘This is just so utterly gut wrenchingly tragic. I can’t even find my words. rest in peace Caroline.

Disbelief: Her fellow ITV were left stunned and shaken by the news

Disbelief: Her fellow ITV were left stunned and shaken by the news

Disbelief: Her fellow ITV were left stunned and shaken by the news

‘I wish we could just be kinder. I wish we could just be open minded to each other and I wish we could be more understanding and mindful of one another and what issues people may be struggling with beneath the surface. We’re all human!

‘My heart aches for her family and loved ones at this terrible time of pain. Sending love!’

Amanda Holden posted: ‘Utterly devastated to hear of the sudden death of this funny bright beautiful young girl. My heart goes out to her family. For Caroline to feel that death was the only way out breaks my heart… Anger doesn’t even begin to cover how I feel about her being thrown to the dogs like she was…

‘Why was she not shown the same level of, consideration, protection, warmth and importance as other artists in our industry who have struggled recently? There are criminal gaps in the differences. I am certain there is more to her story… I know the truth will out. May she rest in peace and those responsible for this lack of humanity be brave enough to admit their shame.’

Joel Dommett wrote: ‘It’s so sad. I’m so sad… I always loved hanging out. You made so many people happy. I wish you could see all the love on social media for you now… I hate that it’s too late. XX’

 

Sad: Tributes are flooding in for the star

Sad: Tributes are flooding in for the star

Sad: Tributes are flooding in for the star 

Martin Kemp wrote: ‘Caroline Flack, I’m so so sad to hear this News… All my love goes out to her family and friends..oh man! Rest in Peace Caroline!’

Presenter Phillip Schofield shared a post once shared by Caroline on her Instagram that said: ‘In a world where you can be anything be kind.’ 

Coleen Rooney wrote: ‘Heartbreaking people really don’t know what others are going through or feel. Thoughts and prayers are with Caroline’s family and friends. Rest in PEACE Caroline’

Flooded: Love Island's official account also added a tribute to the collection

Flooded: Love Island's official account also added a tribute to the collection

Flooded: Love Island’s official account also added a tribute to the collection

ITV presenter Susanna Reid shared a moving tribute: ‘My heart is absolutely broken for Caroline Flack and everybody who loves her.’

Choir master Gareth Malone shared: ‘ABSOLUTELY gutted about Caroline Flack we worked together and she was delightful. TV can be a hard place to work and mental health problems are everywhere. I hope this changes things. A sad day.’ 

Donna Air penned: ‘Oh no. I am shocked and saddened to hear the news. Caroline Flack was always so fun and kind , I cannot believe she hasn’t had the chance to heal & overcome what was clearly a horrible time for her. RIP, I will always remember our giggles in Australia especially darling girl’ 

Strictly stars: Also sharing tributes are member of the Strictly Come Dancing family, these include moving words from Tess Daly, Ola Jordan and presenter Claudia Winkleman

Strictly stars: Also sharing tributes are member of the Strictly Come Dancing family, these include moving words from Tess Daly, Ola Jordan and presenter Claudia Winkleman

Strictly stars: Also sharing tributes are member of the Strictly Come Dancing family, these include moving words from Tess Daly, Ola Jordan and presenter Claudia Winkleman

Also sharing tributes are members of the Strictly Come Dancing family, these include moving words from Tess Daly, Ola Jordan and presenter Claudia Winkleman.

Tess wrote: ‘Absolutely shocked and devastated at this tragic news. Rest in peace Caroline you beautiful girl. MY heart goes out to your family and loved ones at this time XXXX’

Claudia penned: ‘Such heartbreaking news. Sending so much love to Caroline’s family and friends. XXX’

Ola shared: ‘I’m absolutely heartbroken. RIP Angel’ 

 

Showing love: ITV presenter Susanna Reid shared a moving tribute - 'My heart is absolutely broken for Caroline Flack and everybody who loves her'

Showing love: ITV presenter Susanna Reid shared a moving tribute - 'My heart is absolutely broken for Caroline Flack and everybody who loves her'

Showing love: ITV presenter Susanna Reid shared a moving tribute – ‘My heart is absolutely broken for Caroline Flack and everybody who loves her’

Her family has been informed and in a statement tonight 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.’

Flack was best known for previously fronting the hugely popular ITV2 show Love Island.

Contestants Mike Thalassitis and Sophie Gradon took their own lives following their appearances on the dating programme, throwing the show’s future into question.

Sad words: Philip Schofield  shared a post from Caroline where she said 'In a world where you can be anything be kind' and wrote his own moving message 'you poor poor darling girl my heart is breaking'

Sad words: Philip Schofield  shared a post from Caroline where she said 'In a world where you can be anything be kind' and wrote his own moving message 'you poor poor darling girl my heart is breaking'

Sad words: Philip Schofield  shared a post from Caroline where she said ‘In a world where you can be anything be kind’ and wrote his own moving message ‘you poor poor darling girl my heart is breaking’  

Flack’s death comes just weeks before she was due to go on trial for assaulting partner Lewis Burton, who in December accused her of hitting him with a lamp before backtracking on these claims.

On Friday, the model and tennis player posted a picture of him and Flack on Instagram and wrote: ‘Happy Valentine’s… Love You.’

His heartfelt snap followed an announcement by Flack that she was about to break her silence about her troubled personal life. 

Heartbreaking: Love Island stars are amongst those who are paying tribute to the former presenter as well as other reality TV stars

Heartbreaking: Love Island stars are amongst those who are paying tribute to the former presenter as well as other reality TV stars

Heartbreaking: Love Island stars are amongst those who are paying tribute to the former presenter as well as other reality TV stars 

On Thursday she wrote: ‘I’m going to speak today… mine and my family’s life is no longer up for entertainment or gossip.’

But a source said she wrote the post ‘without thinking’ and changed her mind, vowing to keep quiet until the time was right.

The star’s family has been informed and in a statement tonight 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.’ 

Love Island also released a statement, they said: ‘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.’

@allontheboard posted: 'May you find peace in heaven!'

@allontheboard posted: 'May you find peace in heaven!'

@allontheboard posted: ‘May you find peace in heaven!’

Final snap: Caroline shared a final sweet photo with her dog Ruby just two days before she was found dead at her London flat at the age of 40

Final snap: Caroline shared a final sweet photo with her dog Ruby just two days before she was found dead at her London flat at the age of 40

Final snap: Caroline shared a final sweet photo with her dog Ruby just two days before she was found dead at her London flat at the age of 40

Last moments: Earlier this week, Caroline was seen wall climbing with a friend at The Castle Climbing Centre in London on Wednesday night

Last moments: Earlier this week, Caroline was seen wall climbing with a friend at The Castle Climbing Centre in London on Wednesday night

Last moments: Earlier this week, Caroline was seen wall climbing with a friend at The Castle Climbing Centre in London on Wednesday night

Tragic: The star's family has been informed of her death and in a statement tonight said: 'We can confirm that our Caroline passed away today on the 15th February' (pictured in November)

Tragic: The star's family has been informed of her death and in a statement tonight said: 'We can confirm that our Caroline passed away today on the 15th February' (pictured in November)

Tragic: The star’s family has been informed of her death and in a statement tonight said: ‘We can confirm that our Caroline passed away today on the 15th February’ (pictured in November)

Care-free: In a video shared to Instagram by her TV producer pal, Mollie Grosberg, the giggling Love Island star could be seen attempting to the climb the wall but backtracking as she got too high

Care-free: In a video shared to Instagram by her TV producer pal, Mollie Grosberg, the giggling Love Island star could be seen attempting to the climb the wall but backtracking as she got too high

Care-free: In a video shared to Instagram by her TV producer pal, Mollie Grosberg, the giggling Love Island star could be seen attempting to the climb the wall but backtracking as she got too high

Court: Caroline's death comes just weeks before she was due to go on trial for assaulting partner Lewis Burton, who in December accused her of hitting him with a lamp before backtracking on these claims (pictured together in October 2019)

Court: Caroline's death comes just weeks before she was due to go on trial for assaulting partner Lewis Burton, who in December accused her of hitting him with a lamp before backtracking on these claims (pictured together in October 2019)

Court: Caroline’s death comes just weeks before she was due to go on trial for assaulting partner Lewis Burton, who in December accused her of hitting him with a lamp before backtracking on these claims (pictured together in October 2019) 

Earlier this week, Caroline was seen  wall climbing with a friend at The Castle Climbing Centre in London on Wednesday night.

In a video shared to Instagram by her TV producer pal, Mollie Grosberg, the giggling Love Island star could be seen attempting to the climb the wall but backtracking as she got too high.   

Caroline, who jetted back to the UK last month after a Los Angeles break to ‘clear her head’ amid her assault charge, appeared in good spirits during the clip which was captioned: ‘We r professional climbers #healthiswealth.’

Caroline’s friend had been staying with her recently, concerned for her well-being. On Friday, Caroline was told the case against her for assaulting her boyfriend last December would go ahead.

According to sources, the morning afterwards, Caroline’s producer friend went to the shops. She returned to find she could not get into the flat in East London. She called Caroline’s father, Ian, who gained entry to the property and found his daughter’s body.

The family confirmed Caroline’s death with a short statement on Saturday evening. It said: ‘We can confirm that our Caroline passed away today on the 15th February.’

Caroline’s management hit out at the CPS for pursuing the ‘show trial’ against her, after her boyfriend Lewis Burton – whom she is said to have attacked – chose not to press charges. 

Her trial was due to take place in less than three weeks and had left the presenter feeling ‘she was on her own’ and ‘couldn’t see a way out’, friends have said.

Lewis said she hit him with a lamp at her former home in Islington in December before retracting the statement. It is also thought that she was using anti-depressants before her death.

If you have been affected by this story, you can call the Samaritans on 116 123 or visit www.samaritans.org.

Sad: Caroline was best known for previously fronting the hugely popular ITV2 show Love Island, which has tonight been rocked by the third death of one of its former stars (pictured last year)

Sad: Caroline was best known for previously fronting the hugely popular ITV2 show Love Island, which has tonight been rocked by the third death of one of its former stars (pictured last year)

Sad: Caroline was best known for previously fronting the hugely popular ITV2 show Love Island, which has tonight been rocked by the third death of one of its former stars (pictured last year)