Laura Whitmore, who took over from Caroline Flack as the new host of Love Island, has broken her silence on her friend's tragic death yesterday.
The Irish presenter broke down in tears as she paid tribute to the 40-year-old TV star during her Radio Five Live show and urged people to realize the devastating impact their words can have on people.
"Be kind, only you are responsible for how you treat others and what you put out in the world," she said. "I've had messages and been harassed for doing my job, and this is where the problem is."
The TV personality continued: "And I want to use my platform, this platform, to call people out, because it's gone too far," she added. "Your words affect people. To paparazzi and tabloids looking for a cheap sell, to trolls hiding behind a keyboard, enough. I'd like to thank BBC and ITV for the support that I've had and those who supported my decision to come in today, as I felt it was the right thing to do."
"Thank you to my boyfriend, the kindest man I know, and to the whole Love Island family who are in mourning of their colleague and friend and have been a great support over the last few hours," Whitmore said.
"I love you. To everyone, be kind in what you say. I'm going to carry on and get through this show, as that's what Caroline would say to do. Caroline, I am so sad for you and your family. I am angry that you saw this as your only option, as I know how much love and support you had, I'm sorry you didn't know that. I am not sure when but I know I'll see you on the dance floor again. And I hope you are at peace and know that you are loved."
Yesterday, a statement from Flack's family confirmed her death: "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."
If you or anybody you know is having suicidal thoughts, please reach out to somebody or contact one of the mental health charities below:CALM: www.thecalmzone.net, 0800 585 858
Heads Together: www.headstogether.org.uk
Mind: www.mind.org.uk, 0300 123 3393
Papyrus: www.papyrus-uk.org, 0800 068 41 41
Samaritans: www.samaritans.org, 116 123
If you are a non-UK resident, please find a list of mental health charities HERE.
