Mike Thalassitis' friend Ellie O'Donnell says his death will "haunt" her forever.
Mike Thalassitis
The 26-year-old reality TV star was found dead in woodland near his home in Essex on Friday (15.03.19), and his model pal has paid tribute to the heartthrob, who was sending her messages last week, and wishes she could have "saved" him.
Taking to her Instagram page, she posted: "I cannot believe I am writing this. I feel sick.
"I wish to god this was a nightmare and I could wake up. I can't believe you are gone. It doesn't feel real. You were literally texting me yesterday pictures of the samples for the colour of the tables in your new restaurant. That was your last text to me. I had no idea it would be the last time I'd ever hear from you. You were the kindest soul, you were so funny, you had so much to live for.
"Il never forget the last few days I spent with you. I'm glad I got to hear you laugh and see you smile before you left this world.
"These pics & this video were literally taken last week, I can't believe we were laughing and joking then eating pizza and now you are not even here. It doesnt feel real, I am numb and feel sickened.
"Mike, il never forget you. Il never forget how passionate you were about your new restaurant, and il never forget you telling me about your trip to Thailand telling me how it was the best experience of your life just going out there with no plans, travelling around just living your best life. You told me one day, once the restaurant is up and running your gonna book a one way ticket again and go live your best life.
"I know I didn't get to spend much time with you but I cannot believe this has happened and I wish I could have helped save you. This will haunt me for the rest of my life. I don't think I will ever come to terms with it.
RIP Mike. (sic)"
Ellie also clarified that Mike was "not her boyfriend" but a "dear" friend of hers who she valued greatly.
She added: "My heart goes out to your family & friends. (as for the media articles- Mike was not my boyfriend. He was a dear friend of mine and helped me massively through a difficult time in my life & I will be forever thankful to him for making me smile again.) (sic)"
Police have confirmed that Mike's death is "not being treated as suspicious".
A Scotland Yard spokesperson said: "Police were called to a park near Latymer Way, N9 at 0928hrs on Saturday, 16 March to reports of a man found hanged.
"Officers and the London Ambulance Service attended and found a man, aged in his 20s, deceased.
"At this early stage, the death is not being treated as suspicious.
"Police are in the process of informing the man's next of kin. A file will be prepared for the coroner."