Love Island’s Sophie Gradon found dead at 32: what do we know?

Sophie Gradon, a former contestant on ITV’s Love Island, has been found dead. She was 32.

Gradon, also the winner of Miss Great Britain in 2009, made history on the dating show in 2016 as one half of Love Island's first same-sex couple, after she “coupled up” with fellow contestant Katie Salmon, The Guardian reports.

Gradon’s boyfriend, Aaron Armstrong, confirmed reports of her death on his Facebook page, posting a photo of himself with Gradon with the caption: “I will never forget that smile I love you so so much baby your my world forever ever and always.”

A spokeswoman for Northumbria Police said: “At about 8.27pm yesterday (20 June) police attended a property in Medburn, Ponteland, where sadly a 32-year-old woman was found deceased.

“There are not believed to be any suspicious circumstances surrounding her death. A report will now be prepared for the coroner.”

Cara de la Hoyde, who won the Love Island series in which Gradon took part, said it was an “awful day” and “heart is broken”.

Alex Bowen, who was also on the same series, added: “We had lots of little chats and so many laughs you were the shoulder to cry on and a beautiful person with a beautiful soul. Shine bright in that sky Sophie gradon.”

Olivia Buckland, who also appeared, wrote: “Awful awful news this morning. I am gutted. I am so sorry the world failed you. You were such an intricate, creative, intelligent soul. Words fail me.

“You helped us through so much. Your smile was one in a million. The world failed. I send all my love and my thoughts to you today.”