Channel 4’s Celebs Go Dating star Eden Blackman dies at 57 as stars pay tribute to ‘beautiful human’
Tributes have poured in following the death of Celebs Go Dating star Eden Blackman at the age of 57.
The television personality and dating expert passed away on June 21 after what his family described as a “long illness” borne “with quiet grace”.
His family announced the news on Tuesday through a statement on his official Instagram account, describing him as “fun, unpredictable, vivid and full of life”.
“Eden blazed through life with charm, mischief and a fire that was entirely his own, magnetic, stylish, sharp, impossibly handsome and always up for the adventure,” they wrote.
The statement continued: “To know Eden was to be caught in his orbit – fun, unpredictable, vivid and full of life. He stood proud, laughed loudly and lived as only he could.”
Fellow Celebs Go Dating stars have led the outpouring of condolences. Paul C Brunson, who joined the show after Eden’s departure, wrote: “Sending love and deepest condolences.
“I never met Eden, but we were forever linked through Celebs Go Dating. He showed me kindness when he didn’t have to, and I’ll never forget it.”
Tom Read Wilson, the show’s receptionist turned client co-ordinator, added: “This is so very sad. I will always be hugely grateful for his kindness and generosity of spirit.”
Former participants also shared their memories. Bobby Norris, who appeared in season three, wrote: “I will always remember both the on screen and off screen time we spent together.”
Calum Best commented: “He was such a good man, rip my bro.”
Racing driver Seb Morris, who appeared in season four, shared an emotional tribute: “For years I’ve missed you mate, missed our chats, missed opening up to you, and you to me, missed the sound of your voice as you helped me through one of the toughest times of my life.”
Singer Tallia Storm wrote: “Working with him on CGD was such a special time, he was truly amazing, full of unforgettable memories, and always looked out for me.”
From the wider entertainment world, Fearne Cotton called Eden “the most charismatic, beautiful human,” adding: “Will miss you always E X.”
BBC Radio 2 DJ Zoe Ball wrote: “dearest eden. always a gem, his smile, his energy. im so so sorry for your loss.”
Rapper Example recalled: “Eden believed in me years before I had any playlist action at the big radio stations. Many fond memories. A truly unique energy.”
Eden was best known for his role as one of the original dating coaches on the E4 reality series Celebs Go Dating, appearing in the first four seasons from 2016 to 2018.
His family’s statement noted that music was his “first love and constant companion” and that he had run a music PR agency for 18 years.
In 2018, Eden announced his departure from the show to focus on other ventures.
LATEST DEVELOPMENTS
Gorka Marquez shares Gemma Atkinson wedding update as BBC Strictly star admits ‘It doesn’t matter’BBC ‘backs’ presenter after she corrected ‘pregnant people’ script as fans express worriesColeen Nolan breaks silence on daughter’s pregnancy as she makes admission about rule: ‘I lied!’
At the time, he said: “I’m immensely proud of the show’s success but after four great series, it’s now time for me to fully commit to my other projects.”
These included relaunching his dating app Would Like to Meet and developing a new business venture.