Love Island star Montana Brown says Mike Thalassitis was in ‘dark place’ before his death
‘I’m so so sorry I couldn’t do more to help’
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Your support makes all the difference.Former Love Island contestant Montana Brown has revealed co-star Mike Thalassitis had been in a “dark place” before his death.
The 26-year-old penned a heartfelt tribute addressing the late reality TV star on Instagram, writing: “I am absolutely heartbroken that I couldn’t help you”.
Brown and Thalassitis met while filming the third season of the ITV2 reality show in 2017 and remained close friends.
Thalassitis was found dead near his home in Essex on Friday. As of yet, no cause of death has been confirmed.
“I’m so angry at you for doing this because you are so loved by so many people and I just wish you picked up the phone so we could’ve sorted this out,” wrote Brown alongside a series of snaps of the duo.
Brown went on to explain her frustrations that Thalassitis was “so misunderstood” in the public eye.
The semi-professional football player acquired the nickname “Muggy Mike” during his time on Love Island due to his behaviour on the show – he teamed up with contestant Olivia Attwood while she was romantically linked to another Islander, Chris Hughes.
“Let’s face it, the ladies did fall at your feet BUT everyone had this impression of you and you were literally the opposite,” Brown continued before praising his loyalty, kindness and thoughtfulness.
“I just wish people had a tiny glimpse of what the real you was like,” she added.
Brown said she knew Thalassitis has been in a “dark place” a few months ago, but thought he was “on the up”, revealing she’d got him to buy The Magic, a self-help book, and take various measures to boost his mental wellbeing, like putting photographs of his family up in his car.
“ I just don’t know how I didn’t notice…” she added before concluding: “I can’t imagine how much pain you must have been in to do this, and the fact that you went through this on your own breaks my heart.
“I’m so so sorry I couldn’t do more to help you. I have so much love for you Mike and I will never forget you. Sleep tight darling and I miss you so much already.”
Brown’s tribute comes amid a flurry of others, with former Love Islanders including Amber Davies, Chris Hughes and Dom Lever among those who have paid homage to the late reality star on social media.
For confidential support on mental health call Samaritans free from any phone, at any time, on 116 123 (UK & RoI) or email jo@samaritans.org. In the US call 1-800-273-TALK or chat online.
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