Television presenter Caroline Flack has been found dead in her home.
She was aged 40.
A lawyer confirmed the former Love Island host had taken her own life at her East London flat.
A friend who was staying with her had popped out to the shops.
Her family said: “We can confirm that our Caroline passed away today.
“We would ask that the press respect the privacy of the family at this difficult time.”
Caroline was due to stand trial on March 4th after pleading not guilty at Highbury Corner Magistrates’ Court to assaulting her boyfriend Lewis Burton.
Despite former professional tennis player Burton insisting he didn’t wish to press charges the CPS issued a summons.
It was known among her friends that Caroline was in a “vulnerable state”.
She was banned from seeing Burton or contacting him through social media.
The couple spent St Valentine’s Day apart.
Burton, 27, posted: “Happy Valentine’s. Love you.”
Caroline was a huge celebrity on television.
She presented on Fame Academy, I’m A Celebrity…Get Me Out Of Here! and the X Factor.
But it was the dating show Love Island that brought her most attention.
She left the programme after her alleged bust-up with Burton.
ITV has been criticised for treating her “harshly” given that other stars who’d made headlines for allegedly behaving badly, continued working for the broadcaster.
An ITV spokeswoman said: “Everybody at Love Island and ITV is shocked and saddened by this desperately sad news.
“Caroline was a much-loved member of the Love Island team and our sincere thoughts and condolences are with her family and friends.”
Anyone feeling emotionally distressed or suicidal can call Samaritans for help on 116 123 or email [email protected] in the UK.
