Mike Thalassitis' Family And Friends Hold Vigil After His Tragic Death

Mike Thalassitis' family and friends gathered for a vigil in a park close to his home to pay tribute to the late Love Island star who tragically died last weekend.

The Celebs Go Dating star was found dead in woodland near his North London home on Saturday.

Mike's family and friends gathered in Edmonton on Thursday evening to light sky lanterns and candles in his memory, sharing videos of the emotional moment on Twitter.

Tributes have flooded social media in honour of the 26-year-old reality star following the heartbreaking news of his passing.

Mike's former Celebs Go Dating star, Sam Thompson, paid tribute to his close friend with an emotional Instagram statement, telling followers that they had "shared some amazing memories together" during and after the show.

Love Island bosses are set to make major changes to the format of the show in the wake of Mike's death.

Bosses have since announced that all stars will be given therapy after their stint in the villa - regardless of whether they want it.

Richard, creative director of ITV Studios, wrote: "When something so awful happens we naturally enter a period of soul searching and ask whether anything could have been done.

"This review has led us to extend our support processes to offer therapy to all Islanders and not only those that reach out to us.

"And we will be delivering bespoke training to all future Islanders to include social media and financial management.

"The key focus will be for us to no longer be reliant on the Islanders asking us for support but for us to proactively check in with them on a regular basis."

Producers have also brought in government mental health advisor Dr Paul Litchfield to give an independent review of the show's aftercare arrangements.

Mike's death - and Sophie Gradon's last year - brought criticism from the show's contestants over a 'lack of aftercare'.

Our thoughts are with all of Mike's family and friends at this difficult time.

Anyone affected by the news of Mike's death, or struggling in anyway, should call Samaritans for free on 116 123 - or write down your thoughts in an email to [email protected]

Topics: Celebs Go Dating, Celebrity News, Love Island, Sam Thompson

Rachel Andrews

Rachel Andrews is an NCTJ trained Journalist at PRETTY52. She specialises in Fashion and Beauty Journalism, and has experience at a range of online and print publications and joined the team in 2017. Contact her - [email protected]

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