Montana Brown is still in "shock" following the news of Mike Thalassitis' death.
Montana Brown
The reality TV star appeared alongside Mike on the ITV show in 2017, and Montana has been left feeling devastated by the former soccer player's death at the age of 26.
She confessed: "I am absolutely in shock of the news. In fact I don't even quite believe it yet as I spoke to him [on Friday]."
Montana also insisted that the public's perception of Mike didn't chime with the real-life reality.
She described the former 'Love Island' contestant as "thoughtful, caring, and ... fiercely loyal".
Speaking to the BBC, Montana explained: "Mike was so misunderstood - on television he was known as playing the ladies and everyone had this perception that he was this classic lad that didn't have feelings.
"I can honestly say, Mike was thoughtful, caring, and so fiercely loyal to his friends and family and really would do anything for them."
Mike was found dead in woodland near his home in Essex on Friday (15.03.19).
He recently suffered a painful split from ex-girlfriend Megan McKenna, but Mike was reportedly on the cusp of launching a new business venture.
An insider told The Sun on Sunday newspaper: "It is absolutely tragic to have died at such a young age.
"Mike had so much to live for. He was about to launch a restaurant in Essex with a pal."
Meanwhile, a spokesman for ITV - which produces 'Love Island' - said: "Everyone at ITV2 and 'Love Island' are shocked and saddened by this terrible news.
"Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with Mike's family and friends at this very sad time."
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