Celebs Go Dating star Eden Blackman has died following a long illness, his family has confirmed. A post on Eden’s official Instagram account this evening paid a heartbreaking tribute to the dating expert and TV star.

Alongside a smiling picture of Eden, 57, it read: “We are heartbroken to share that our beloved Eden passed away on 21 June 2025, after carrying a long illness with quiet grace. 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.

“Music was his first love and constant companion, a pulse that shaped who he was, and he carved his path through that world with instinct, passion and deep care for the people he worked with.Later he brought that same energy and wild spark to television, helping others shine. He championed people with sincerity, humour and encouragement, always wanting others to feel seen at their best.

They 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. We’ll carry his spirit with us always. We ask for privacy as we find our way through this loss, and thank you for your love and kindness.”

Tributes have poured in from his followers and colleagues, including Celebs Go Dating’s successor, Paul C Brunson, who 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. May he rest in paradise.”

The dating expert fell out with co-star Nadia Essex during filming of the 2018 series and left show bosses concerned their frosty relationship could jeopardise the show’s future. He later quit Celebs Go Dating after four series to focus on his app and music agency.

Series four saw the likes of Gemma Collins, Mike Thalassitis and Stuart Little actor Jonathan Lipnicki try and find love, and was extremely popular.

However, Eden and Nadia’s feud threatened to overshadow that success after they unfollowed each other on social media and stopped speaking behind the scenes.

The star remained dignified when revealing his departure to The Sun Online, saying at the time: “Today I informed the team that I won’t be returning to my role at Celebs Go Dating if and when the show comes back for Series five.

“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 – 2018 will see me relaunch my dating app ‘Would Like to Meet’ and also marks the 18th year of my music PR agency – these remain my biggest passions and take up a great deal of my time.”