‘ I've been crippled by anxiety – but I feel good after finding love'

Love Island star Montana Brown on her new man, life-changing therapy and the loss of her good friend Mike Thalassitis

- EMILY WHITWAM

Walking into the famous Love Island villa four years ago, there was something a little different about Montana Brown. Her natural beauty, effortless style and empathy for others was a refreshing addition to ITV’s most popular reality dating show.

But when Montana found fame at the tender age of 21, she had no idea of the crippling anxiety she’d face and heartbreak she’d endure when her co-star, Mike Thalassitis, tragically died by suicide in 2019.

When we speak to Montana, now 25, to mark Mental Health Awareness Week, she tells us how her life changed the day she found out about Mike’s death and how therapy helped her through dark times.

And although romance was the last thing she expected to come out of lockdown, Montana exclusively confirms that she’s in a happy relationship with ex-rugby player Mark O’Connor, after splitting from Elliott Reeder early last year.

Here, the model opens up on finding love again and the downside of reality TV…

Hey Montana! We hear that you’re loved-up...

Yeah and it’s wonderful. Mine and Mark’s relationship was born out of the second lockdown. I feel like good things always come when you’re not expecting it. It’s been lovely to feel in a good headspace. Last year I convinced myself that I didn’t want to meet anyone – I’d be on my own forever instead [laughs]. But he came along when I wasn’t looking.

It’s always the way! How did you meet?

We met in person! It’s been really nice to spend the time to get to know someone and take it slowly.

How did your relationship work during the pandemic?