Tom Powell ‘shocked’ following Love Island star Sophie Gradon’s death: ‘She seemed happy’

Former Love Island contestant Tom Powell has told of his shock at the death of his ex, Sophie Gradon, saying she "seemed happy" when they last spoke.

Geordie reality star Sophie appeared on the second series of the ITV2 show back in 2016.

Tom coupled up with her in the villa before the couple made it official.

The 26-year-old said he struggled to process the news when he was first informed about his former flame’s death.

Speaking to the Metro, Powell explained: “I [was woken] up at 7am this morning, one of her friends told me.

“I’m so shocked I didn’t have much to say. I spoke to her two weeks ago and she was fine, we were laughing and joking on Facetime, she told me she was dating someone new. She seemed happy.”

The couple shared an intense romance in the villa before they called time on their relationship and later went on to be friends.

"We had a bad breakup, two years ago, but six months later we spoke and apologised to each other for both being d*******.

“We spoke regularly, we were still so close. She’d stick up for me and have my back and the exact same as hers.”

He added: “I know she had issues and she was on medication for the past few years for anxiety and depression. I never expected this, ever.”

Gradon’s boyfriend, Aaron, broke the sad news on Facebook on Thursday morning, writing: “I will never forget that smile. I love you so so much baby, you're my world forever and always.”

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