In a profoundly moving and intimate revelation, the closest confidante of the late Big Brother icon Nikki Grahame has shared the reality star's poignant final wish to overcome her lifelong battle with anorexia.
Nikki, who captured the nation's heart with her iconic diary room rants on the 2006 series, tragically passed away in April 2021 at the age of 38 after her condition severely worsened during the Covid-19 lockdowns.
Her close friend and Big Brother 7 housemate, Imogen Thomas, has now opened up about the devastating final weeks of Nikki's life, revealing her fierce determination to get better.
'She Was Desperate to Recover'
"She wanted to get better, she really did," Imogen shared, her voice heavy with emotion. "She was so desperate to put on weight, to beat this illness. It's the most heartbreaking part of it all."
Imogen described the isolating effect of the pandemic, which cruelly stripped away Nikki's support network and the daily routines that were vital for her management of the eating disorder. "The lockdowns were a catalyst... she was just in her flat, alone with her thoughts. It was a nightmare scenario."
A Legacy of Laughter and Light
While her struggle was immensely private and painful, Nikki's public legacy remains one of unforgettable entertainment and sheer vibrancy. Her unique phrases like "Who is she?" and her utterly authentic personality cemented her status as one of reality TV's most beloved figures.
Imogen's tribute serves as a stark reminder of the devastating reality of eating disorders, which have the highest mortality rate of any mental illness. She hopes that by speaking out, she can honour Nikki's memory and encourage others to seek help.
The conversation around mental health support, particularly for those facing eating disorders, continues to be a critical issue, highlighted by the tragic loss of a true television legend.
