Caroline Flack death: Russell Brand compares star to Amy Winehouse in moving essay

Russell Brand has published a moving statement about the power of kindness in the wake of TV presenter Caroline Flack’s death.

On his Instagram and his personal website, the comedian, author and activist described himself as “angry and sad that Caroline Flack found herself in that place”.

The former Love Island host died by suicide on 15 February.

Brand also compared Flack’s experiences to those of other “vulnerable people in the public eye”, referencing both Jade Goody and Amy Winehouse in the process.

“I am sad because she was a lovely little person, a real laugh, a dynamo and the idea that she had been so drained of hope by her circumstances chokes me,” Brand wrote.

“I am angry because I have watched this play out before with vulnerable people in the public eye and I would like to slay with some righteous sword the salacious, foaming, incessant poking, trolling judgement that chased her to the grave.”

Brand, who has talked about being treated for depression himself, went on to urge compassion in others.

“Our best hope is to build relationships and communities based on kindness, forgiveness and compassion, not easy values to maintain given the complexity within us and without us but Caroline’s death shows us that the alternative is just too sad to bear,” his statement continued.

Brand is the latest in an array of stars to express their grief over Flack’s death. The Love Island voiceover artist Iain Stirling signed off the 17 February episode of the series by saying “You were a true friend to me. I’m going to miss you Caz.”