Tonight, The BRIT Awards celebrated a year of achievements in music. But it was also an evening of reflection, as host Jack Whitehall paid tribute to late Love Island host Caroline Flack.
Jack paid tribute in his opening monologue. 'Over the weekend, we learnt the awful news that a member of the BRITs family, our friend Caroline Flack, had passed away. She was a kind and vibrant person with an infectious sense of fun. She will be sorely missed.'
Additionally, Harry Styles wore a stylish suit complete with lace shirt and pearls to the O2 ceremony. He also wore a black ribbon, which is believed to be in memory of Caroline. The pair had previously dated, after meeting on The X Factor.
Caroline, who recently stepped back from Love Island duties, died at her London flat last week. A statement from her family confirmed the news, reading: ‘We can confirm that our Caroline passed away today on the 15th February. We would ask that the press both respect the privacy of the family at this difficult time.'
The news was followed by a series of touching tributes from friends of Caroline, including Nick Grimshaw, Russell Brand, Dawn O’Porter and Laura Whitmore, who hosts the current series of Love Island.
Iain Stirling, who does the programme’s voice overs, led the tributes on Monday night’s episode. ‘We are absolutely devastated by the tragic news that Caroline, a much-loved member of our Love Island family, has passed away’, he said. ‘Our thoughts are with her family and friends at this dreadful time. Caroline and me were together from the very start of Love Island and her passion, warmth and infectious enthusiasm were a crucial part of what made the show connect with millions of viewers.’
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