News

Family of Take Me Out contestant Charlie agree to broadcast of date

The 22-year-old took his own life several months after show appearance

| Updated:

Take Me Out viewers were saddened to learn that a charming contestant who featured on last weekend’s show died shortly after filming.

Host Paddy McGuinness shared the tragic news of Charlie Watkins’ passing on Twitter.

His family subsequently took the brave decision to publicly reveal the 22-year-old had killed himself, after battling mental health issues for man ears.

They released a statement last Sunday.

“We have lost a very special young man who sadly never recovered from the tragic loss of his mother when he was only nine years old,” it said.

“Tragically this is another example of the mental health issues suffered by young people today as highlighted by the Heads Together campaign supported by the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and Prince Harry.”

Charlie’s appearance on the dating show proved popular with viewers, who were thrilled when he was matched with Jo Tara.

According to the Mirror, his family have insisted that the ITV show his date at Fernando’s as normal.

Tomorrow night, ITV2’s Take Me Out: The Gossip will pay tribute to the York criminology student as it airs footage of presenters Mark Wright and Laura Jackson catching up with him after his date.

Read more: Denise Welch gives thanks for support during dark times

A promo clip for the episode, which showed happily drinking champagne with the hosts, was shared earlier this week.

If you are concerned about your mental health or that of a loved one, visit www.samartitans.org for advice on further support.

Read more: Family of Take Me Out contestant Charlie release statement

Charlie’s family have set up a fundraising page for the mental health charity Mind.

If ou would like to donate visit: charles.watkins.muchloved.com.


Kaggie Hyland
Editor-in-Chief