In the aftermath of Sophie Gradon’s recent passing, the harrowing effects of featuring on reality television have come to light
Reality television personality, Sophie Gradon passed away this Tuesday, 19 June 2018. Gradon was thirty-two years old. Her boyfriend, Aaron Armstrong confirmed news of her death yesterday by sending out a heartfelt Facebook post. The cause of Gradon’s death is as yet unconfirmed, however friends of the star have suggested that she took her own life after suffering from severe anxiety and depression.
Gradon’s Love Island co-star and confidant, Malin Anderson has since spoken out about the scourge of appearing on reality television. Anderson has suggested that reality stars should be offered more support from networks following stints on television series. She named the struggle with instant fame, along with a lack of new job opportunities as reasons for increases in depression in reality stars. Gradon’s other friends, Holly Hagan and Stephanie Davis have also expressed their sadness over her death. The two have cited internet trolling as a contributing factor to Gradon’s ill state of mind.
Gradon starred on the second season of Love Island, in 2016. Formerly, she was Miss Great Britain. Last night’s airing of Love Island, featured a tribute to Gradon which was received poorly by some viewers due to its short air time. The show did release a statement however expressing sadness over the loss of one of its own.
