Mike Thalassitis dead: Love Island star dies aged 26 as co-stars pay tribute to ‘absolute gent’

Love Island star Mike Thalassitis has died aged 26.

His management team confirmed his death on Saturday night.

The body of Mr Thalassitis, who appeared on Love Island in 2017, was reportedly found in woodland near his home in Essex.

Several reality TV stars posted tributes to Mr Thalassitis, an ex-professional footballer, after news of his death was reported.

Mike Thalassitis pictured at an ITV event at London’s Southbank Centre in October last year (Ian West/PA)

Fellow Love Island contestant Chris Hughes, referring to some media outlets’ use of a nickname for Mr Thalassitis , tweeted: “His name wasn’t Muggy Mike. Please stop brandishing that. His name was Mike Thalassitis, and every inch of my heart goes out to his family & friends. A good guy, taken far, far to soon.”

The Only Way Is Essex star Ferne McCann posted: “So so so so sad. Mike you absolute gent. I have no words. My heart and soul and love goes out to his friends & family. Too young. RIP.”

Alex Bowen and Rachel Fenton, who both also appeared on Love Island, tweeted their respects.

Ms Fenton tweeted: “I’m lost for words. My heart breaks for your family RIP @MikeThalassitis.”

Mike Thalassitis and Danielle Sellers attending the ITV Gala at the London Palladium in November 2017 (Ian West/PA)

And Mr Bowen wrote: “I cant get my head round this RIP brother.”

Before appearing on the ITV dating show, Mr Thalassitis was a footballer who played at professional and semi-professional level.

He started his career at Stevenage, where he played a handful of games at League One level: the third tier of English football.

After leaving the club in 2014, the striker had a number of spells at non-league clubs.

Mike Thalassitis at a BUILD – Celebs Go Dating special at Shropshire House, London, in February last year (Ian West/PA)

One of his those clubs, Chelmsford City, tweeted: “The Club are saddened to hear the news of the passing of former Clarets striker Mike Thalassitis. Our thoughts and prayers go to his family and friends at this time.”

Stevenage also tweeted: “Everybody at @StevenageFC is shocked & saddened to hear the tragic news about former player Michael Thalassitis. Our sincerest condolences go to his family & friends.”

Footballer Footballer Joel Byrom, who played with Mr Thalassitis at the club, tweeted: “Shocked and gutted to hear about this. Such a top lad coming through at Stevenage. RIP Thala.”

Mr Thalassitis was born in Edmonton in north London.

He also appeared on the reality show Celebs Go Dating in 2018.