LOVE Island star Sophie Gradon has died aged 32.
Here's the lowdown on the reality star...
Rex Features Sophie Gradon has passed away aged 32
Who was Sophie Gradon?
Sophie, 32, was famed for being on Love Island on series 2 in 2016.
The former reality star, who hailed from Newcastle, was crowned Miss Great Britain in 2009.
She was also a former Miss Newcastle.
Her boyfriend broke the news of her death on social media
How did Sophie die?
It's unclear how Sophie died but a police spokesman said there were no suspicious circumstances surrounding the death.
Her boyfriend revealed the news on Facebook.
Sharing a picture of them together, he wrote: "I will never forget that smile I love you so so much baby your my world forever ever and always"
Sophie described her battle with crippling anxiety and depression in a series of social media posts just months before her death.
More TV and showbiz 'IT WAS HORRIFIC' Sophie Gradon revealed online trolls made her life hell in last interview worth a patsy on the back Inside Patsy Palmer's Californian home with pool and lake views NO LOVE LOST Holly clashes with Lauren Goodger after she blames Rosie for Adam's 'abuse' warning signs Love Island Adam's 'emotionally abusive behaviour' sparks charity concern Brand new baby Russell Brand to become dad for 2nd time as he’s spotted with pregnant wife 'IT WAS HORRIFIC' Sophie Gradon revealed online trolls made her life hell in last interview THE BITTER EMMD Emmerdale’s Anthony Quinlan splits from Strictly love after series of rows ELLIE'S LOSS Sophie Gradon was close friends with Ellie Brown from Love Island 2018 HOTTING UP Love Island's Eyal and Megan get frisky in the Hideaway as Adam and Zara hook up
Who was Sophie's boyfriend? What happened on Love Island?
Sophie's boyfriend was Aaron Armstrong, it is not known exactly how long they had been together.
During her time on Love Island she was in a relationship with Tom Powell.
After he left the island she made history on the show as one half of the show's first same-sex couple after she coupled up with Katie Salmon.
She then quit the show to get back with Tom.
Former Love Island contestant Sophie Gradon has died aged 32, according to reports.
Gradon made history on the dating show in 2016 as one half of Love Island's first same-sex couple, after she "coupled up" with Katie Salmon.
Gradon's boyfriend Aaron Armstrong posted a photo of himself with her on his Facebook page and wrote: "I will never forget that smile I love you so so much baby your [sic] my world forever ever and always."
The former reality TV star, who was born in Newcastle, was crowned Miss Great Britain in 2009.
A cause of death is currently unclear.
A spokesperson from Northumbria Police said: "At about 8.27pm yesterday police attended a property in Medburn, Ponteland, where sadly a 32-year-old woman was found deceased.
"There are not believed to be any suspicious circumstances surrounding her death. A report will now be prepared for the coroner."
Tributes have been paid by friends and Love Island fans. The official Miss Great Britain account tweeted it was "shocked beyond belief - RIP @sophiegradon sending all our love to Sophie's family at this incredible sad time".
Gradon's former co-star Olivia Buckland said: "Awful awful news this morning. I am gutted. I am so sorry the world failed you. You were such an intricate, creative, intelligent soul. Words fail me."
Alex Bowan, who was a runner-up on the 2016 series of the ITV2 show and is engaged to Buckland, tweeted: "We had lots of little chats and so many laughs. You were the shoulder to cry on and a beautiful person with a beautiful soul. Shine bright in that sky Sophie Gradon."
After the tragic death of Love Island star Sophie Gradon, ITV bosses have broken their silence to express 'profound sadness at the news and extend deepest sympathies and thoughts to her family and friends.'
It was revealed on Thursday morning that the 32-year-old former Miss Great Britain was found dead in her home just hours before, leading to an influx of social media tributes from her co-stars, friends and fans.
Having starred opposite Sophie in the 2016 series, pregnant Malin took to Twitter to honour her friend while also discussing mental health awareness, the post-show assistance given to stars and Thursday night's episode.
Devastating: After the tragic death of Love Island star Sophie Gradon, ITV bosses have broken their silence to express 'profound sadness at the news and extend deepest sympathies and thoughts to her family and friends'
Following the announcement of Sophie's death, social media has been swarmed with messages raising awareness for mental health issues - leading to Malin's observation about the impact of appearing on a reality show.
Following the news, a spokesman for ITV said today: 'The whole ITV2 and Love Island team are profoundly saddened to hear the news about Sophie, and our deepest sympathies and thoughts go to her family and friends.'
After remaining relatively removed from the spotlight, Sophie candidly discussed her mental health issues in September, when she told her Twitter followers: 'Hi guys, no not dead just battling a little bit of depression. I'll come back I promise x'.
On Thursday, Malin voiced concern over the aftercare provided to the stars of the show as she mentioned the impact of reality TV on mental health.
Heartbroken: It was revealed on Thursday morning that the 32-year-old former Miss Great Britain was found dead in her home just hours before, leading to an influx of social media tributes from her co-stars, friends and fans
'My beautiful girl': Malin shared tributes on a host of sites
In the midst of a string of Twitter messages, Malin beseeched bosses to pull the latest episode from schedules, as she honoured her friend by penning: NOT ENOUGH AFTERCARE TONIGHT SHOULD NOT AIR'.
Backing her comment, Twitter users wrote: 'Can @LoveIsland do an episode in memory of Sophie gradon please ☹ #Loveisland #sophiegradon...
'i really hope you put some kind of memorial on for tonight’s episode, or cancel it in respect to Sophie Gradon... Shame on you. No mention of the tragic passing of Sophie Gradon. Hope you remember her in the credits of tonight’s episode.
Honour: Backing her comment, Twitter users wrote: 'Can @LoveIsland do an episode in memory of Sophie gradon please ☹ #Loveisland #sophiegradon'
Cruel: In the rest of her glowing tribute, Malin wrote: 'RIP @sophiegradon THIS WORLD IS CRUEL. I can’t believe what I’ve just read. You beautiful angel. I have no words. I’m in so much pain. A beautiful friend and person. It hasn’t sunk in'
'It’s the least she deserves. RIP lovely Sophie, thoughts and prayers go out to your family and friends #LoveIsland'.
As well as the calls for the show to be removed, fans are questioning whether Sophie's friend and fellow Newcastle-native Ellie Brown would be alerted to her passing while she remains in the villa - having entered earlier this week.
In the rest of her glowing tribute, Malin wrote: 'RIP @sophiegradon THIS WORLD IS CRUEL. I can’t believe what I’ve just read. You beautiful angel. I have no words. I’m in so much pain. A beautiful friend and person. It hasn’t sunk in.'
Devastated: Malin (pictured on the show in 2016) formed a close bond with Sophie
Her pal: As well as the calls for the show to be removed, fans are questioning whether Sophie's friend and fellow Newcastle-native Ellie Brown would be alerted to her passing (Ellie pictured in a tweet posted by Sophie last week)
She wrote: 'I’m so distraught. All our memories in Love Island and after. Beautiful girl. Please rest in peace now... MENTAL HEALTH IS SERIOUS...
'LOOK AFTER EACH AND EVERYONE!... Try going on a show like that and see what it can POTENTIALLY do to your mental health after'.
She later retweeted a message from a follower reading: 'Was it all with the aftermath of loveisland? She was constantly being trolles wasnt she? Yet she had a dont give a Fuck attitude... there was clearly pain behind that smile xxx.'
Another fan echoed the sentiment reading: 'Maybe all you ex islanders need to step in if this is the case. You obviously know what it’s like after the island and maybe @LoveIsland need to address it to prevent another sad loss. So tragic and sad.. I send love to all that knew Sophie and prey something is done.'
Heartbroken: Another fan echoed the sentiment reading: 'Maybe all you ex islanders need to step in if this is the case (Sophie pictured in 2009)
Heartbroken: Malin posted an image of the pair together with the added caption: 'My beautiful girl. Rest in Heaven now. Nothing has sunk in, and I have no words to say I’m speechless'
Malin posted an image of the pair together with the added caption: 'My beautiful girl. Rest in Heaven now. Nothing has sunk in, and I have no words to say I’m speechless.
'I met you on Love Island and you brought such laughter into my life, up until now. Your smile is one of a kind and you have always been a beautiful soul inside and out. All I know is that you’re an Angel up there and in a better place.
'This world is cruel. MENTAL HEALTH IS SERIOUS. TROLLING IS SERIOUS, DEPRESSION IS SERIOUS. THINK WHAT YOU SAY BEFORE YOU SAY IT. YOU DONT KNOW WHAT ANYONE IS BATTLING.'
For confidential support call the Samaritans on 116123 or visit a local Samaritans branch, or see samaritans.org for details
Love Island 2016 star Sophie Gradon, who claimed she 'sold her soul to reality TV', was found dead at her parents' home last night at the age of 32.
The former Miss Great Britain shot to fame after she became one half of the first bisexual couple on the ITV2 show and had sex with a male co-star in a wardrobe.
Police yesterday rushed to the £960,000 family home in Medburn near Newcastle, where they found Sophie dead.
Her heartbroken boyfriend Aaron Armstrong, who Sophie branded 'The One' on social media hours before her death, penned: 'I will never forget that smile I love you so so much baby your my world forever'.
Sophie, who attended the £4,400-a-term Dame Allan's School in Newcastle, documented her struggle with anxiety and depression on social media.
She told her Twitter followers in September: 'Hi guys, no not dead just battling a little bit of depression. I'll come back I promise x.'
The model was friends with popular bar owner Paul Burns, 37, who died weeks ago and penned a poignant message after his death thanking him for, 'being there when I needed someone'.
The former Miss Great Britain shot to fame after she became one half of the first bisexual couple on the ITV2 dating show and had sex with a male co-star in a wardrobe
Adoring: Brokenhearted Aaron Armstrong penned: ' I will never forget that smile I love you so so much baby your my world forever'
The star appeared on the 2016 series of the hit ITV2 dating show and won a legion of fans
Sophie passed away at her parents' £960,000 home in Medburn, Ponteland. Her family were too upset to speak today
Sophie had recently paid tribute to her friend Paul 'Conrad Burns', who passed away at the age of 37 earlier in June
One week ago ago Sophie used her Instagram to promote a swimwear line while she enjoyed a holiday in France
Sophie documented her struggle with anxiety and depression on social media
While it remains unclear how Sophie died, police said there are not believed to be any suspicious circumstances surrounding her death.
It is understood Sophie passed away at her parents' £960,000 home in Medburn, Ponteland. Her family were too upset to speak today.
Sophie confirmed her relationship with Aaron Armstrong, who is understood to be a boxer, on Facebook on May 29.
They were introduced by their friend Kalvin Banks, the director of a computer company and just three weeks ago Mr Armstrong joked to friends that he and Sophie were 'planning their wedding'.
On June 15, shortly after returning from a holiday in the south of France, Sophie tweeted: 'I genuinely feel that when true & honest human souls get taken away from us, they are the ones who have found the meaning of life.'
In April Sophie documented her battle with anxiety, writing on Twitter: 'Thinking back to when I became a total recluse, afraid to go out anywhere bc of crippling anxiety & how different my life is now!!!
'Facing up to your fears is sometimes the hardest but most rewarding thing!!!'
She wrote in October: 'Feel so guilty when my anxiety takes over, for not wanting to see or speak to anyone. Some days I get so overwhelmed I just want to nap!'
Just two days ago Sophie was tweeting about the current season of Love Island and joking with other reality TV stars about the series.
A spokesman for ITV said today: 'The whole ITV2 and Love Island team are profoundly saddened to hear the news about Sophie, and our deepest sympathies and thoughts go to her family and friends.'
There has been an outpouring of grief from Sophie's friends and co-stars across social media today.
FROM PRIVATELY-EDUCATED SCHOOLGIRL TO MISS GREAT BRITAIN The star was found dead at her home An only child, Sophie attended the prestigious Dame Allan's School in Fenham, Newcastle, where fees are around £4,400 per term. It is understood Sophie's parents Colin and Deborah own a landscaping business. She graduated from Northumbria University with a 2:1 in Media, Culture & Society in 2007. She was spotted by the owner of Tyne Tees Models, during a night out in the town at the age of 16 before being signed up to the agency. Over the years she juggled positions in marketing and recruitment with working as a model and reality TV star. Sophie was crowned Miss Newcastle in 2008 and Miss Great Britain in 2009. The 32-year-old broke 65 years of pageant tradition after she failed to pass on her Miss Great Britain crown at a ceremony in Somerset in 2010. She was banned from attending because of a row over a train fine. The lingerie model also dated rugby player Danny Cipriani for two months in 2013 after he split from model Kelly Brook following allegations of cheating. In November 2013, it was reported Sophie dumped Cipriani after she claimed he was 'too boring'. The former Miss Great Britain was then said to be dating personal trainer Michael Thurston. She hit the headlines in 2014 after she advertised for a house mate and was dubbed the 'world's most attractive house mate' Sophie hit the headlines again in 2014 when she advertised for a house mate and was dubbed the 'world's most attractive house mate'. She wrote on her online advert: 'I'm extremely sociable and love nothing more than a good night out or drink in the house on a weekend with some chilled house music, candles & good vibes. 'I'm not a serious person, I like to laugh, a lot. I have zero tolerance for complainers or negativity!' She went on to win a legion of fans on the second season of Love Island in 2016 when she found love with Thomas Powell, with whom she famously had sex in a wardrobe. Later in the series she moved on with Katie Salmon, as they became the first bisexual couple on the show. Over the years Sophie juggled positions in marketing and recruitment with working as a model and reality TV star
The stunning model posted this photograph on her Instagram on Wednesday - shortly before she was found dead
On Sunday Sophie posted a series of photos and videos on Facebook of her and her boyfriend enjoying Sunday lunch
Katie Salmon posted an emotional tribute to her former partner on Twitter
Sophie confirmed her relationship with Aaron Armstrong on Facebook on May 29
Just three weeks ago Mr Armstrong joked to friends that he and Sophie were 'planning their wedding'
Sophie captioned this picture - taken from her holiday in France less than a week ago - 'best friend', 'love him', 'partners in crime'
The were introduced by their friend Kalvin Banks, the director of a computer company, who posted this touching tribute to Sophie
Sophie won the hearts of fans on the second season of Love Island when she entered the programme and found love with Thomas Powell (pictured together), with whom she famously had sex in a wardrobe
Later in Love Island Sophie moved on with Katie Salmon, as they became the first bisexual couple on the show (pictured together)
Katie Salmon tweeted: 'Fly high beautiful so high!' alongside this poignant tribute
The 32-year-old posted gushing messages to her boyfriend on social media, including this one where she wished him a happy birthday
Katie Salmon tweeted: 'Fly high beautiful so high!,' alongside a poignant tribute reading: 'Isn't it crazy how someone so stunning, so smiley and appeared so happy can feel no way out. The world we live in behind social media.'
Olivia Buckland, who appeared in Love Island with Gradon, tweeted: 'Awful awful news this morning. I am gutted.
'I am so sorry the world failed you. You were such an intricate, creative, intelligent soul. Words fail me.'
In a second tweet, Buckland wrote: 'You helped us through so much. Your smile was one in a million. The world failed. I send all my love and my thoughts to you today.
'To your family and your loved ones. I cannot work out what to say. RIP you beautiful beautiful woman. I'm so lucky to have met you. £stayshapey.'
Sophie, pictured left on Love Island in 2016, had viewers enthralled with her antics on the show
The 32-year-old broke 65 years of pageant tradition after she failed to pass on her Miss Great Britain crown at a ceremony in Somerset in 2010 following a row over a train fine
The besotted young star had posted images of her new boyfriend and dog on social media
There has been an outpouring of grief from Sophie's friends and co-stars across social media today
Geordie Shore star Holly Hagan wrote: '@sophiegradon you were only helping me battle the twitter trolls yesterday rest in peace beautiful'.
Love Island host Caroline Flack tweeted: 'So very sad . Such a beautiful soul.... such a beautiful smile ...thoughts and love with friends and family.'
Alex Bowen, who also appeared in Love Island in 2016, wrote: 'We had lots of little chats and so many laughs. you were the the shoulder to cry on and a beautiful person with a beautiful soul. Shine bright in that sky Sophie gradon.'
Love Island winner Nathan Massey wrote: 'Truly shocked and upset from the news this morning ! You was like a big sis to me in the villa. thoughts go out to her family and Friends ! RIP Soph.'
A spokesperson from Northumbria Police told MailOnline: 'At about 8.27pm yesterday police attended a property in Medburn, Ponteland, where sadly a 32-year-old woman was found deceased.
'There are not believed to be any suspicious circumstances surrounding her death. A report will now be prepared for the coroner.'
Ms Gradon posted a series of emotional messages on social media in the days before her death
The handsome couple shared their romance on Facebook and Instagram
Posting heartfelt messages on her social media accounts, the star wrote: 'I feel very deep tonight. Reflecting on life & what it means to live'
Sophie was banned from attending the Miss Great Britain crown ceremony in Somerset in 2010
Sophie was left devastated by the death of her friend Paul Burns just weeks ago.
Mr Burns had been in charge of popular bar The Botanist in Newcastle city centre but passed away unexpectedly on June 2.
Posting on Facebook after Paul Burns's funeral Sophie wrote: 'Today was all about you sweetheart.
'What an amazing send off for our Mr Newcastle Paul 'Conrad' Burns. Thank you for being there when you recognised I needed someone, you are a true saint.
'I only wish I had got to know you better. All my love and thoughts with your nearest and dearest.
'I've never felt so emotional yet so uplifted in my life.'
Heartbroken: Olivia's tribute read: 'Awful awful news this morning. I am gutted. I am so sorry the world failed you. You were such an intricate, creative, intelligent soul. Words fail me'
On the show: Reports surfaced on Thursday stating the Newcastle native had died, shortly before reality star Holly Hagan shared a tribute to the businesswoman
Thomas Powell today retweeted a message from Holly Hagan, who wrote: 'If you're struggling right now, people care about you! I promise please speak to someone.'
Sophie, who had more than 400,000 followers on Instagram and more than 218,000 Twitter followers, took part in a talk earlier this year about the impact of social media on children.
She shared her own experience of online bullying as she backed the campaign to protect children from social media abuse.
Psychologist Emma Kenny, who took part in the same , described her as an 'utterly lovely woman'.
Sophie attended the prestigious Dame Allan's School in Fenham, Newcastle, where fees are around £4,400 per term
Fan favourite: She won the hearts of fans on the second season of the show when she entered the programme and found love with Thomas Powell
Friends and fans have praised Sophie for being a 'beautiful person'
The woman who scouted Sophie in South Shields when she was just 16 has spoken of her devastation after the death of the star.
Lesley Lister, owner of Tyne Tees Models, spotted Sophie while she was on a night out in the town 16 years ago and signed her up to the agency.
She says she last saw Sophie just two weeks ago and said there was no inkling anything was troubling her.
Lesley said: 'Sophie was the life and soul of the party, but she was also a really nice and absolutely lovely girl, a beautiful soul, a happy, smiley person.
'She was always full of fun. Despite her success she was humble. It didn't matter what job she did for us, whether big or small, she approached it in the same way.
Stepping out: Caroline was seen for the first time since the news broke on Thursday afternoon
Caroline paid tribute on Twitter, writing: 'So very sad . Such a beautiful soul .... such a beautiful smile ...thoughts and love with friends and family @sophiegradon ❤️'
'She was also a great mentor to the younger girls. If any of them were having problems she would take the time to talk to them, and try and help.
'She would make people feel much better. 'Everyone absolutely loved her. She was a beautiful girl, but clever with it.
'I first spotted her on a night out when she was 16. I went over and spoke to her and she was gorgeous, very enthusiastic.
'She became part of the Tyne Tees family and the rest is history. Sophie knew exactly what she wanted and went for it.
'We were all incredibly proud of what she achieved. She was our first ever Miss Newcastle and our first ever Miss Great Britain.
'I last saw her a few weeks ago when she popped in to talk about her work as a social media influencer and everything seemed fine.
'She was her usual friendly, happy self. She was an only child and I know that her family will be devastated. To die at 32 is tragic.'
