Iain Stirling struggled to hold back the tears as he thanked his late co-star Caroline Flack for being a "true friend" to him in an emotional tribute on ‘Love Island’.
The 32-year-old television presenter – who is the narrator on the dating show – begged people to be "kinder, always show love and listen to one another" following the news that the former host had taken her own life on Saturday (15.02.20).
As the show – which was pulled off air over the weekend out of respect for the 40-year-old presenter – kicked off on Monday (17.02.20), Iain said: "We are all absolutely devastated by the 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 an important part of what made this show connect with millions of viewers.
"Like many of you, right now we are trying to come to terms with what has happened. My only hope is that we can all try to be kinder, always show love and listen to one another.
"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 former ‘X Factor’ presenter was found dead at her flat in London over the weekend – just three weeks before she was due to stand trial on assault charges.
Caroline was arrested at the end of last year after she allegedly hit her boyfriend Lewis Burton over the head with a lamp.
The 27-year-old tennis player decided not to press charges but the Crown Prosecution Service announced last week it was still going ahead with the trial.
After the incident between Caroline and Lewis became known to the public, the blonde beauty was targeted by trolls and the campaign group Fathers 4 Justice.
Iain Stirling pays tribute to Caroline Flack on Love Island
