A dancer who was set to appear on this year’s Britain’s Got Talent has died at the age of 25.
Jack Saunders died by suicide last Sunday, his family confirmed to The Mirror.
He was part of a five-man dance group called Green Force Five who had auditioned for BGT judges Simon Cowell, Amanda Holden, Alesha Dixon and David Walliams.
According to the paper, they had successfully made it through to the live semi finals of the ITV show.
A spokesperson said: “Our thoughts and condolences are with Jack’s family and friends during this difficult and devastating time.”
Jack has previously appeared as a dancer on The X Factor in 2014, and competed on Sky1′s Got to Dance in 2012, reaching the finals as part of Unity UK.
He also danced at the London Olympics in 2012, at the age of 18.
Jack’s mum Sandra paid tribute to her son, telling The Mirror: “People can’t believe Jack is gone. We are the same.
“Jack was a kind soul. He worried about everyone else – always focused on others to make sure they were OK. He was the shoulder you cried on.
According to the paper, BGT bosses are in conversation with Jack’s family about whether his audition will air when the show returns next month, as well as speaking to Green Force Five about whether they wish to continue in the competition.
Useful websites and helplines:
- Mind, open Monday to Friday, 9am-6pm on 0300 123 3393
- Samaritans offers a listening service which is open 24 hours a day, on 116 123 (UK and ROI - this number is FREE to call and will not appear on your phone bill.)
- The Mix is a free support service for people under 25. Call 0808 808 4994 or email: help@themix.org.uk
- Rethink Mental Illness offers practical help through its advice line which can be reached on 0300 5000 927 (open Monday to Friday 10am-4pm). More info can be found on www.rethink.org.