'Love Island' spin-off Aftersun cancelled following death of Caroline Flack

Love Island spin-off show Aftersun will not air tonight, 17 February, following the death of Caroline Flack.

ApplauseStore, who process tickets for the programme, has shared a message with fans on their Instagram and is also reported to have text those who received tickets, sharing the news.

“Love Island Aftersun has been cancelled this evening,” their message reads.

“Due to the recent news of former love island host Caroline Flack tragic passing, ITV have made the decision to cancel this evenings recording of Love Island: Aftersun out of respect for the stars family and friends. We apologise for the last minute change but we ask that you respect the decision made during this difficult time.

Read more: Tributes pour in for Caroline Flack following her death aged 40

“Our thoughts go out to Caroline’s family and friends at this difficult time.”(sic)

Love Island was cancelled on Saturday and Sunday after Flack died by suicide on 15 February.

In a statement, her family confirmed the news: “We can confirm that our Caroline passed away today on the 15th February.

“We would ask that the press both respect the privacy of the family at this difficult time."

The former Love Island host was due to stand trial on 4 March over allegations of domestic abuse; she was arrested in December amid accusations she had attacked boyfriend Lewis Burton.

Burton, who had denied the prosecution, shared an emotional tribute to the 40-year-old a day after her passing, promising the star he would "be your voice baby", and that he would "try [to] make you proud everyday".

"I am so lost for words I am in so much pain I miss you so much I know you felt safe with me you always said I don't think about anything else when I am with you and I was not allowed to be there this time I kept asking and asking," the 27-year-old tennis player wrote on Instagram.

He concluded: "I love you with all my heart."

Part of Flack’s bail conditions denied her contact with Burton.

The CPS said it would not comment on the specifics of the case "given the tragic circumstances".

Flack stepped down from hosting the 2020 series of Love Island amid the ongoing court case. Both Flack and ITV made it clear the door had been left open for a possible return.

Laura Whitmore replaced Flack and was also hosting Aftersun. She paid tribute to her friend of 10 years on Sunday morning, breaking down in tears as she hosted her BBC 5 Live show.

Whitmore, 34, said that “anyone who knew Caroline knew she was vivacious, loving, and had a passion for life, which is why none of this makes sense”.

“Caroline loved dancing. Angels by Robbie Williams always reminds me of her because she danced so beautifully to it on Strictly, and I’m going to play that song after I’ve said what I want to say.”

She said Flack “loved music, she loved to dance, we shared many a dancefloor at gigs, festivals”.

“She was bubbly, and for such a small stature commanded a room,” Whitmore added. “She loved to laugh and had the most infectious chuckle.

“She also had many struggles. I’m not going to pretend she’s perfect, but she lived every mistake publicly under the scrutiny of the media.”

For confidential emotional support at times of distress, contact The Samaritans at any time by calling 116 123 or emailing jo@samaritans.org.