Love Island viewers break down in tears as heartbroken Laura Whitmore pays tribute to Caroline Flack during finale
LOVE Island viewers broke down in tears last night after the show paid tribute to Caroline Flack during the finale.
The 40-year-old former host passed away last Saturday at her home in London, and the Islanders were told about her death off-camera ahead of the final.
During the show a touching eulogy to Caroline, who hosted the programme from 2015 until last summer, aired.
Tearful host Laura Whitmore introduced the tribute, saying: "The past week has been extremely difficult, coming to terms with the loss of our friend and colleague, Caroline.
"We're thinking of her family and everyone who knew her at this time.
"Caroline loved Love Island, she loved love and that's why tonight's final is dedicated to her."
While the song Feel The Love by Rudimental played, shots of Caroline walking into the villa, meeting the Islanders and hosting AfterSun played out.
Her memorable laugh featured as did sweet moments with Iain Stirling, who provides the voiceover for the show.
Viewers were in tears at the footage, with one writing: "You either wanted to be Caroline or you wanted her to be your friend #carolineflack Beautiful tribute #LoveIsland #bekind."
Another added: "Watching that love island tribute to Caroline flack really hit me on another level. So many emotions all at once. Hopefully your resting peacefully you wonderful woman. Thanks for all the laughter and entertainment over the years. You’ll be missed x."
A third tweeted: "couldn’t hold back the tears watching that tribute to caroline flack on #loveisland."
Meanwhile a fourth shared: "Have always adored Caroline to pieces, so that #LoveIsland tribute has broke me."
The hit ITV2 programme was taken off air for two nights following her tragic death.
It returned on Monday evening with an emotional tribute from the show’s narrator Iain Stirling.
The devastated comedian fought back tears as he described the late star as a "true friend" and said he was going to miss her.
Spoken over footage of the ocean, Iain said: "We are all devastated that Caroline, a much loved member of our Love Island family, has passed away.
"Our thoughts are with her family and friends at this dreadful time.
"Caroline and me were together from the very start of Love Island. Her passion, warmth and infectious enthusiasm are a crucial part of what made the show connect with millions of viewers.
"Like many of you, we're still trying to come to terms with what's happened. My only hope is that we can try and be kinder, always show love and listen to one another.
"Caroline, I want to thank you for all the fun times making our favourite show. You were a true friend to me. I’m gonna miss you Caz."
YOU'RE NOT ALONE
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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