Love Island returns to ITV2 with emotional Caroline Flack tribute

Two episodes of the hit reality TV show were cancelled in the wake of Flack's death
Rachel McGrath17 February 2020

Love Island returned to ITV2 with a tribute to former presenter Caroline Flack on Monday night.

Following the presenter’s death at the age of 40, bosses made the decision to pull Saturday night’s Unseen Bits show and Sunday’s regular programme.

The series, which is now into its final week, then resumed on Monday with a short tribute to Flack opening the show.

The broadcaster played clips of a serene beach as Iain Stirling offered kind words about his good friend and former colleague.

Caroline Flack - In pictures

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He said: "We are absolutely devastated by the tragic news 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 and her passion, warmth and infectious enthusiasm were a crucial part of what made the show connect with millions of viewers.”

“Like many of you, right now we’re all just trying to come to terms with what’s happened. My only hope is that we can all try to be kinder, always show love and listen to one another.”

His voice breaking, Stirling concluded: “Caroline, I want to thank you for all the fun times we had making our favourite show. You were a true friend to me. I’m going to miss you, Caz.”

The tribute ended with a photo of Flack on screen.

Stirling's commentary on the show was noticeably more muted during the episode with the comedian offering simple statements on the events in the villa.

Adverts from sponsors Just Eat usually bookend each part of the show but these were replaced by 'Be Kind' messages from Samaritans.

Monday's episode of Love Island Aftersun was cancelled.

Current Love Island host Laura Whitmore was among those who shared a supportive message for Stirling after the tribute.

Tagging her boyfriend in the post, she wrote: "Love you @IainDoesJokes I know that wasn’t easy."

Flack's friends, family and fans have paid tribute to the star, who took her own life at the age of 40 on Saturday.

Stirling previously posted an Instagram video of Flack performing to Angels by Robbie Williams on Strictly Come Dancing.

Monday's This Morning included emotional scenes as Ruth Langsford and actress Nicola Thorp both struggled to fight back tears during a discussion about Flack and mental health.

Meanwhile, one of the friends who had been staying with the presenter in recent days shared a picture of the star taken on Valentine's Day.

Mourning: Iain Stirling paid tribute to his close friend
Dave Benett

Flack's death on Saturday was confirmed by her family, with their lawyer stating she had taken her own life.

The family's statement read: "We can confirm that our Caroline passed away today on the 15th February.

"We would ask that the press both respect the privacy of the family at this difficult time."

If you are affected by any of the issues raised in this article, please contact the Samaritans on 116123 (free) or email jo@samaritans.org.

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