Love Island bosses release touching statement following Sophie Gradon's shock death
She appeared on the show in 2016
News broke earlier today that Love Island 2016 star Sophie Gradon had sadly passed away at the age of just 32, with her boyfriend Aaron Armstrong confirming the news in a heartbreaking post on social media.
As well as Sophie's family, friends and former co-stars paying tribute to the former Miss Newcastle star, Love Island bosses have also paid their respects to the former Islander. Taking to the official Love Island Twitter account, the emotional message read, 'The whole ITV2 and Love Island team are profoundly saddened to hear the news about Sophie, and our deepest sympathies and thoughts go to her family and friends.' sic
Fans of the popular dating show are also calling for bosses to pay tribute to Sophie at the end of tonight's show, although nothing has been confirmed about this.
The news of Sophie's shock death emerged earlier today when her boyfriend Aaron Armstrong posted a photo with her to his Facebook page. He wrote, 'I will never forget that smile I love you so so much baby your my world forever ever and always ❤️❤️' sic
The cause of Sophie's death is so far unclear, but Northumbria Police have released a statement reading, “At about 8.27pm yesterday (June 20) police attended a property in Medburn, Ponteland, where sadly a 32-year-old woman was found deceased.
“There are not believed to be any suspicious circumstances surrounding her death. A report will now be prepared for the coroner."
Sophie was a popular Islander when she appeared on the second series of Love Island back in 2016. She originally coupled up with Tom Powell on the show, before making Love Island history when she found feelings for Katie Salmon.
Upon hearing the shock news of Sophie's death, a number of her 2016 Love Island co-stars paid tribute to the 32-year-old, including Katie, Cara de la Hoyde, Kady McDermott, Zara Holland, Malin Andersson, Olivia Buckland, Alex Bowen, Rykard Jenkins and Nathan Massey.
Love Island presenter Caroline Flack has also paid tribute to Sophie, she wrote on Twitter, 'So very sad . Such a beautiful soul .... such a beautiful smile ...thoughts and love with friends and family @sophiegradon ❤️ ' sic
Our thoughts go out to Sophie's family and friends at this difficult time.