Former Big Brother host Davina McCall has described Nikki Grahame as "iconic" following her "really tragic" death at the age of 38.
The 53-year-old shared a tribute on Twitter on Saturday but posted a second message on Instagram on Sunday, admitting she had initially struggled to find the correct words for the moment.
I am so desperately sad to hear about Nikki Graham x my thoughts are with her friends and family xx she really was the funniest , most bubbly sweetest girl x❤️❤️❤️💔
— Davina McCall (@ThisisDavina) April 10, 2021
She wrote: "It felt odd that I had posted something on Twitter and not on here.
"I've typed and deleted three times… I can’t find the words… it’s just really tragic.
"She was iconic. In the true sense of the word.
"Whose catch phrases will be with me forever.
"Sending so much love to her friends and family. I’m so sorry. The pain you and she must have endured."
Grahame, originally from Northwood in London, had recently received treatment for an eating disorder at a specialist clinic following a fundraising campaign organised by friends and fans.
Fellow Big Brother 7 housemate Pete Bennett, who Grahame formed a relationship with on the show in 2006, also shared a tearful video addressing her death.
In the clip posted to Instagram, he said: "I thought to myself, yeah, we could save her. But we didn’t."
He added: "We have lost a true character. Our series just wouldn’t have been the same without her."
Holding up a bottle of wine, he concluded: "We really love you Nikki. You were a true winner. You were great.
"You f****** rocked it babes. Just want to say, we’ll miss you babe. See you later Nikki."
Grahame’s death was confirmed by her representative on Saturday.
