Shocked & saddened
Irish reality stars pay tribute to Big Brother’s Nikki
TV host Brian Dowling has revealed his shock at the death of Big Brother co-star Nikki Grahame.
Reality star Nikki, 38, died on Friday after a lengthy battle with anorexia.
She had been fighting the illness since childhood and was first admitted to psychiatric care at 12 after a suicide bid.
Brian, who found fame after winning the second series of the reality series and won Ultimate Big Brother in 2010, said: “Saddened and shocked to hear about the passing of the beautiful Nikki Grahame.
“Was recording last night when I found out. The show I was recording was right beside the Big Brother House. I have the best memories of being here with Nikki when we were both on Ultimate Big Brother.
“We were the final two and to share that moment with her will
always be so special. To me Nikki is Big Brother. My thoughts and prayers are now with Nikki and her family during this time.”
Jedward’s Edward and John Grimes also expressed their sadness at their fellow Big Brother contestant’s death.
They tweeted: “Rip Nikki Grahame as fellow Big Brother contestants we’ve gone through the same experience and having met you on the TV show our heart goes out to your family and friends.”
Nikki’s ex-boyfriend and fellow Big Brother star Pete Bennett called her a “true winner”. He added: “We have lost a true character.
“I thought, yeah we could save her, but we didn’t. But it’s OK, she’s in a good place and she’s not suffering any more.”
The show’s host Davina Mccall said she was “desperately sad”, adding: “She really was the funniest, most bubbly, sweetest girl.” Up to 188,895 people in Ireland will experience an eating disorder in their lives.
Having met you on the TV show our heart goes out to you
JEDWARD EXPRESS THEIR SORROW YESTERDAY