Reality TV star dies at 26

UK Love Island star Mike Thalassitis has died aged 26.

The news was confirmed by his manager at the weekend, however the cause of his death has not yet been released.

A former footballer, Mike was a late arrival on the 2017 season of Love Island, which was also broadcast in Australia, and his former co-stars and ITV, the company that produces the show, have led tributes in his honour.

“Every inch of my heart goes out to his family & friends,” co-star Chris Hughes, tweeted, “A good guy, taken far, far too soon.”

Singer Caroline Flack, who hosts the show, wrote, “Mike… you were a total gentleman… I won’t forget that… it’s so so sad… you will be missed. RIP.”

“Everyone at ITV2 and Love Island are shocked and saddened by this terrible news,” a spokesperson for ITV said, “Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with Mike’s family and friends at this very sad time.”

Mike had a career as a professional soccer player and was signed to club Margate FC when he appeared on Love Island.

He quickly raised eyebrows on the show and earned the nickname ‘Muggy Mike’, which his co-stars have now urged people to stop using.

Following his success on reality TV, Mike went on to star in Celebs Go Dating last year.

His passing comes after the deaths of his best friend Danny Cutts, and his beloved grandmother.

It’s understood that Mike had moved in with his 94-year-old grandmother because she was in need of a full-time carer.