Caroline Flack has defended Love Island following the deaths of two former contestants, saying negative headlines about the show made her "angry".
The dating reality series, which is set to return next week, has faced increased scrutiny following the deaths of Sophie Gradon and Mike Thalassitis in the last year.
Responding to the media backlash to the programme, Caroline said: "It's dangerous and I'm really, really angry.
"It's not just that you're blaming a TV show, you're blaming people and their jobs."
The host told Cosmopolitan magazine : "In life, we all have a duty of care to look out for each other, but I don't think it's fair to point fingers of blame.
"This is a much bigger issue than just a reality TV show, and when something this bad happens… when something this horrible and sad occurs, it's so dangerous to point fingers within hours and minutes of it happening.
"None of us know what's going through someone's mind and we can't sit there and speculate.
"It's time to think about the bigger picture, about what's going on with young men and young people and the pressures of modern life. It's just too sad and too sensitive to talk about," said Caroline.
Love Island returns to ITV2 on Monday 3 June, against a backdrop of some calls for it to be dropped.
ITV recently announced an enhanced duty of care process, including a minimum of eight therapy sessions for contestants.
Richard Cowles, Creative Director ITV Studios Entertainment, spoke about the changes to the care procedure last week.
It came amid mounting speculation that regular features including Casa Amor and the lie detector tests has been dropped from this year's run.
Mr Cowles said: "Due to the success of the show our Islanders can find themselves in the public eye following their appearance. We really want to make sure they have given real consideration to this and what appearing on TV entails. Discussing all of this with us forms a big part of the casting process and, ultimately, their decision to take part.
"Also, as we are outlining today our welfare processes follow three key stages: pre-filming, filming and aftercare and we are increasing our post filming support to help Islanders following their time in villa."
Previous contestants of the show including Malin Andersson and Zara Holland have urged reality TV bosses to provide better after care for participants in reality shows.
This year the Love Island team have been working with Dr Paul Litchfield in order to independently review, evolve and enhance the care process.
The July issue of Cosmopolitan is on sale from May 31.
*Love Island returns on Monday 3 June on ITV2 at 9pm
Do you have a story to sell? Get in touch with us at [email protected] or call us direct 0207 29 33033
If you're struggling and need someone to speak to, you can contact the Samaritans for free at any time of the day or night on 116 123. Alternatively, email [email protected] if you'd prefer to write down your feelings in confidence
Source: Read Full Article
