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18th Mar 2019

Love Island release statement following Mike Thalassitis’ death and claims of poor aftercare

Denise Curtin

Mike Thalassitis

Past contestants have deemed the support they’ve received to not be enough

On Saturday, it was announced that former Love Island cast member Mike Thalassitis had died at the age of 26.

His death follows that of another Love Island star, Sophie Gradon, who tragically died last year after appearing on the second season of the show in 2016.

Now, fans and Love Island stars are hitting out at ITV for not offering proper and adequate aftercare for the reality TV stars following the show.

 

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Dom Leaver, who was on the show with Thalassitis, lashed out at Love Island bosses, saying: “You get a psychological evaluation before and after you go on the show but hands down once you are done on the show you don’t get any support unless you’re number one.”

Others are urging for the show to be taken off the air unless precautionary steps are taken, leading to ITV releasing a statement to radio station Heart to address people’s concerns.

“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,” read the statement.

“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.”