Health Secretary calls for better care for Love Island stars following Mike Thalassitis’ death

The Secretary of State for Health and Social care Matt Hancock says organisations have a duty of care to look out for those they ‘make famous overnight.’

Speaking at a conference just one day after it was confirmed that Love Island‘s Mike Thalassitis died from suicide aged 26, the MP touched on how sudden fame can impact stars massively.

Although the ITV2 show has defended care for contestants’ mental health, Matt said: ‘The sudden exposure of massive fame can have significant impacts on people.

‘There’s a duty on organisations that make people famous overnight to look after them after that.’ (sic).

A spokesperson for Love Island confirmed that aftercare is offered on the show, stating: ‘Care for our Islanders is a process the show takes very seriously and is a continuous process for all those taking part in the show.

‘We ensure that all of our Contributors are able to access psychological support before, during and after appearing on the show. The programme will always provide ongoing support when needed and where appropriate.

‘We also discuss at length with all of our Islanders, before and after the show, how their lives might change and they have access to support and advice to help with this.’

Tributes for Mike have been flooding in since his death was confirmed on Saturday, with Love Island’s Chris Hughes urging fans not to call him ‘Muggy Mike’.

Meanwhile, fellow Celebs Go Dating co-star Sam Thompson said he ‘could have done more’ in a heartbreaking tribute to his friend posted on Instagram.

Montana Brown broke down on This Morning as she revealed  that Mike text her two days before his body was discovered.

On Sunday it was confirmed that Mike died by suicide after his body was found hanged in a North London park.

Love Island is expected to return to ITV later this year.