Former Premier League footballer Andy Carroll has spoken out for the first time about the tragic death of Louella Fletcher-Michie, the daughter of 'Holby City' actor John Michie, at Bestival in 2017.
Carroll, who was in a relationship with Louella at the time of her passing, described himself as "devastated" by the loss. The 35-year-old striker admitted he still struggles to come to terms with the tragedy that unfolded at the music festival in Dorset.
The Tragic Incident
Louella Fletcher-Michie, then 24, died after consuming a "party drug" at Bestival in September 2017. The promising dancer and model was found dead in woodland near the festival site after celebrating her birthday.
Carroll revealed: "It's something that will stay with me forever. Louella was an incredible person with so much life ahead of her. I think about her every single day."
Ongoing Grief
The former Liverpool and West Ham player explained how difficult it's been to process the loss. "People don't realise how these things affect you long-term," Carroll said. "There are days when it hits you harder than others."
He added that while time has passed, the pain hasn't diminished. "You learn to live with it, but it never gets easier. I just try to focus on the good memories we shared."
Avoiding the Spotlight
Carroll admitted he deliberately stayed out of the public eye following the tragedy. "I didn't want to speak about it before because it was too raw," he confessed. "The media attention was overwhelming, and I needed time to grieve privately."
The footballer praised Louella's family for their strength throughout the ordeal. "John and Carol [Louella's parents] have been amazing. Their courage in the face of such loss is inspiring."
Moving Forward
Now playing for French club Amiens, Carroll says football has been his salvation. "The game gives me focus and purpose. When I'm on the pitch, I can channel everything into my performance."
He concluded by saying he hopes speaking out might help others dealing with similar losses. "If sharing my experience can help even one person feel less alone, then it's worth it."
