Prime Video has released a two-part documentary titled 'The Curse of Love Island', examining the deaths of Caroline Flack, Mike Thalassitis and Sophie Gradon. The programme, available to stream from Sunday, July 26, features testimonies from former contestants and industry experts, exploring the 'highs and lows' of reality television and the challenges faced after the show.
Malin Andersson's Final Message
Former Love Island contestant Malin Andersson, who appeared in season two in 2016, disclosed the final message she sent to Caroline Flack just days before Flack died on 15 February 2020. In the documentary, Andersson said: 'I reached out to Caroline because I was concerned. I thought about Sophie, I thought about Mike, and I just thought I don't know what kind of support she had around her. I sent her a heart on the 13th of February. Just sent her a heart. See, that breaks my heart.'
Andersson added: 'It's not like they've been hit by a car or a freak accident. Three people have taken their lives, that's not okay and that's not normal.'
Fellow Islanders Remember
Former Islander Luis Morrison recalled: 'I remember seeing Caroline's death on social media, it was sad to see and everyone just couldn't believe it.' Podcaster Orlaith Condon reflected: 'I just really remember that sense of loss that I felt for someone I had never met. That was Caroline's gift, she really made us feel like we were in on it with her and she was our girl on the inside.'
ITV's Response
ITV issued a statement to Prime Video saying due to confidentiality, they could not comment on individuals' welfare, but confirmed their 'duty of care procedures have evolved significantly over time.' They added that elements such as language and behaviour training for participants and a social media blackout during the show have been introduced, and islanders have contact with welfare producers for 14 months post-show.
'The Curse of Love Island' is available to stream on Prime Video.
