Tragedy struck last month with the death of former Love Island contestant Sophie Gradon. The model and marketing manager from Newcastle appeared in the first series of the rebooted Love Island in 2016.
A committed charity fundraiser and winner of the coveted Miss Great Britain title, Sophie was involved with several islanders during her time on the reality TV show. Most notably, when she coupled up with glamour model Katie Salmon, Gradon became part of the first same-sex relationship on Love Island.
In the months before her death, Gradon had spoken out about the impact that using social media can have on children. She revealed that she had been the victim of targeted bullying and harassment online, through her social media accounts.
Sophie said: “It was horrific. I think when you get so many comments on the scale we did coming out of thousands of followers.”
“There are fans and positive comments but people would focus on the negatives. Sometimes I would look for it…There would be so many negative comments. They are commenting on the way you look, the way you talk. They would come up with an opinion of you on a TV show where they’ve watched you for 45 minutes.”
Fellow Love Island contestant Zara Holland paid tribute to the Geordie on Twitter, saying: “I’m beyond heartbroken, I’m in shock. My gorgeous girl, why? You will be truly missed, I will think about you every single day. The nicest, kindest, caring, hard working girl I have ever met. Sending all my love to your family. I love you.”
The pair formed a bond during and after their Love Island experiences when Zara was stripped of her Miss Great Britain title for having sex on the programme. Gradon said at the time: “As an ex-Miss Newcastle and Miss GB, I can say that it’s time people moved forward from their old-fashioned thinking and accepted the simple fact that women like to have sex.”
Love Island stars on the books with booking agent MN2S are perfectly placed to speak about the pressures of reality TV and the aftershocks of appearing on such a popular show. A Love Island cast member could also be the perfect choice to hammer home a message about online safety for a campaign or charity. To find out more about booking a celebrity who has appeared on Love Island, contact this top talent agency today to find out more.