Death of Love Island star Sophie Gradon ruled suicide

Love Island’s Sophie Gradon took her own life, an inquest has ruled.

A hearing into the death of the reality star last year took place this week.

The inquest concluded Sophie had taken her own life by hanging after consuming cocaine and alcohol.

Coroner Eric Armstrong said: “There’s a good deal of concern at the moment because of the consequences of taking alcohol and using cocaine… [which] appears to give rise to violent thoughts.

“In America, there’s research which suggests that anyone who takes cocaine and alcohol is 16 times more likely to die by suicide.”

He added: “If Sophie’s death is to serve any purpose at all, that message should go out far and wide.”

The coroner concluded: “Sophie Hannah Gradon, having consumed alcohol and cocaine took her own life by hanging.”

The hearing heard how Sophie had been diagnosed with depression in 2013, three years before appearing on Love Island.

In final messages sent to a friend, Sophie spoke of struggling with her mental health. Her body was found by her boyfriend Aaron Armstrong the next morning.

Tragically, Armstrong later went on to take his own life as well.

Sophie appeared on Love Island in 2016 and last year saw the show dedicated in her memory.

Sophie spent 39 days in the villa, first coupling up with Tom Powell before partnering with Katie Salmon in the show’s first same-sex pairing. Katie tweeted following Sophie’s passing: “Your smile will be remembered forever.”

Contestants who shared the villa with Sophie in 2016 have also paid tribute.

Alex Bowen wrote online: “We had lots of little chats and so many laughs ? you were the the shoulder to cry on and a beautiful person with a beautiful soul. Shine bright in that sky Sophie gradon”

Sophie’s death in 2018 was followed by fellow Love Island star Mike Thalassitis passing in March, aged just 26.

ITV bosses have since pledged to offer more help and support to contestants who appear on the show.

If you ever need help, Samaritans offer confidential advice and support, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week over the phone on 116 123 or online