Olly Murs recalls moment he found out about Caroline Flack’s death: ‘I was numb’

‘I’m still in shock, really,’ says musician

(Getty Images)

Olly Murs has revealed he is “still in shock” over the death of his former X Factor co-host Caroline Flack.

In February, Flack was found dead in her flat aged 40, having taken her own life.

In a new interview, the musician, who was close friends with Flack, explained how he heard the news on holiday.

“My phone went at 2.23am and I’ll never forget it,” Murs told The Sun.

“My manager told me and I just stared at my phone for hours, I didn’t know what to do. I just didn’t want to believe it.”

The 35-year-old continued: “I was numb to any feelings and then I just broke down.

“Since then I just have constant waves of emotions — one minute I’m OK, the next I’m so sad for her.

“It’s hard, I’ll always miss Caz a lot.”

Murs also opened up about the severe trolling he and Flack were subjected to when they presented The X Factor in 2015, describing it as the “worst” he’d faced in his career.

“The online abuse from social media trolls was truly awful,” he said.

“I’ve never minded constructive criticism from my peers but with social media you get commented on — how you’re doing your job, how you look, how you speak, and things people wouldn’t dare say to your face.

“Eventually I stopped going on social media during the series, but something really does have to change online.”

Murs said that everyone should be held accountable for what they say online.

“Their words would then be attached to their real profile – not just someone hidden behind their computer using a false name,” he added.

“Then people would think twice about being so abusive.”

Shortly after Flack’s death, Murs posted a tribute to her on Instagram, writing: “My heart is forever broken... I’ve lost something today that I’ll never ever get back.. and that’s you.”

If you are experiencing feelings of distress and isolation, or are struggling to cope, The Samaritans offers support; you can speak to someone for free over the phone, in confidence, on 116 123 (UK and ROI), email jo@samaritans.org, or visit the Samaritans website to find details of your nearest branch.

For services local to you, the national mental health database – Hub of Hope – allows you to enter your postcode to search for organisations and charities who offer mental health advice and support in your area