Mike Thalassitis’ heartbroken friends hold vigil for the Love Island star where he was found hanged
His loved ones lit candles and sent lanterns flying into the sky in his memory
MIKE Thalassitis’ heartbroken friends and family have held a vigil for the Love Island star where he was found hanged.
The 26-year-old’s loved ones lit candles and sent lanterns flying into the sky in his memory.
Mike Thalassitis with his brother Nick
Lanterns were lit in his memory
The remembrance service came just six days after he was found dead following a secret battle with depression.
Sharing footage from the vigil, his friend Michelle, wrote: “For @mikethalassitis.
“Goodnight @MikeThalassitis Catch those lanterns in the Sky”.
Flowers can be seen laid by a tree next to tealights surrounding pictures of Mike.
His death has sparked a nationwide conversation about the treatment of reality TV stars after they finish filming.
Love Island has now pledged to offer therapy to “all Islanders and not only those that reach out to us”.
It follows the suspected suicide of Mike Thalassitis and death of Sophie Gradon last year.
ITV has been fighting to save the lucrative franchise after ex-stars complained of “zero aftercare” and faced backlash from fans.
Mike shot to fame on the 2017 series of the ITV2 dating show.
He was found hanged in a park in Edmonton, North London, last Saturday.
The star was grief-stricken over the death of his grandmother, had accrued “huge debts”.
His friends and family have been left shell-shocked by his death, after he appeared to be looking forward to the future with his new restaurant opening.
If you or a loved one are affected by mental health problems, or suicidal thoughts, call the helpline on 116 123
YOU'RE NOT ALONE
It doesn’t discriminate, touching the lives of people in every corner of society – from the homeless and unemployed to builders and doctors, reality stars and footballers.
It’s the biggest killer of people under the age of 35, more deadly than cancer and car crashes.
And men are three times more likely to take their own life than women.
Yet it’s rarely spoken of, a taboo that threatens to continue its deadly rampage unless we all stop and take notice, now.
That is why The Sun launched the You’re Not Alone campaign.
The aim is that by sharing practical advice, raising awareness and breaking down the barriers people face when talking about their mental health, we can all do our bit to help save lives.
Let’s all vow to ask for help when we need it, and listen out for others… You’re Not Alone.
If you, or anyone you know, needs help dealing with mental health problems, the following organisations provide support:
- CALM, , 0800 585 858
- Heads Together,
- Mind, , 0300 123 3393
- Papyrus,, 0800 068 41 41
- Samaritans, , 116 123
It followed a six-month depression battle before his untimely death.
His close friend Montana Brown – who he starred with on Love Island – revealed she thought Mike’s death was a hoax and called to warn him.
The 23-year-old said she was told rumours were circulating about him taking his own life before she’d been told the devastating news.
- The Sun launched a Let’s Talk campaign encouraging those with suicidal thoughts to contact loved ones and professionals. Get advice at Papyrus HopeLineUK on 0800 068 4141 or email pat@papyrus-uk.org.