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Take Me Out star Charlie Watkins killed himself after filming

On Saturday night, we were all left saddened when Take Me Out host Paddy McGuinness took to Twitter to dedicate the night’s episode to contestant Charlie Watkins, who had tragically passed away after filming.

It was later revealed that he died just last month, with his twin brother and father being left understandably devastated.

Charlie tragically passed away last month.
Charlie tragically passed away last month.

Now family members have confirmed that Charlie killed himself aged 22, having never got over the death of his mother when he was nine years old.

Speaking in a statement, Charlie’s family said: “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.

“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 twin brother, Harry, shared this touching photo in memorial.
Charlie’s twin brother, Harry, shared this touching photo in memorial.

Charlie won over viewers with his happy go-lucky personality and following his tragic death many of his friends at York University took to social media to pay tribute to him, affectionately referring to him by his nickname, ‘Chazman’.

His family also set up a fundraising page in his memory, with proceeds going to mental health charity ‘Mind’.

So far more than £10,000 has been raised for the Mid and North Essex branch of the charity.

Writing on Saturday night, Paddy broke the sad news to his followers, tweeting: “Tonight’s Take Me Out is in memory of Charlie.

Charlie was a popular student at York University.
Charlie was a popular student at York University.

“A fantastic lad who I’m sure will be greatly missed by his wonderful friends & family. RIP.”

As a mark of respect, Paddy also refrained from tweeting along with the show like he usually does.

During the episode, Charlie described himself as a “big kid” who loved video games and comic books, eventually winning himself a date with Jo-Tara.

Charlie nabbed himself a date on Take Me Out.
Charlie nabbed himself a date on Take Me Out.

Speaking on Saturday night, a spokesperson for Take Me Out shared: “It is with great sadness that we have learnt of the tragic news regarding Charlie.

“Our thoughts and best wishes go to his family and friends. We ask that you respect the family’s privacy at this time.”

If you have been affected by this article please call the Samaritans on 116 123 or visit their website for further guidance.