Family agony as TV star found dead

Updated

The sister of former Apprentice contestant Stuart Baggs has said the family's world is "shattered apart" by his sudden death.

The 27 year old, who ran a communications firm on the Isle of Man, was found dead at an address in the island's capital Douglas at around 9am on Thursday.

Police are investigating his "sudden and unexpected" death, but a spokeswoman said there was nothing "to indicate that his death is criminally suspicious".

She added: "Police again confirm that at this time there is nothing obvious to indicate the cause of his untimely death and inquiries will continue. The police request that consideration is given to the privacy of the family and friends at this difficult time."

Youngest candidate

At 21, Baggs was the youngest candidate when he appeared on the BBC One show in 2010.

He was knocked out at the interviews stage and the series was eventually won by Stella English, but he became a cult favourite with his steady stream of catchphrases and his description of himself as "Baggs the brand".

His sister Charlotte Baggs paid tribute in a post on Facebook.

She wrote: "Today my dearest brother Stuart Baggs gained his wings. To say we are all shocked and devastated is an understatement.

"Love him or hate him, he touched many people's lives from his TV antics to his amazing work with Bluewave Communications."

She added: "He was the biggest character and will leave the biggest hole behind. Not knowing what or why makes it all the harder.

"Can't explain how proud I am of him. He was the king of following his dreams and making them happen."

Stars pay tribute

Past and present stars of the popular show took to social media to express their shock at the entrepreneur's death.

The Apprentice boss Lord Sugar said: "Terrible news Stuart Baggs has died. My sincere condolences to his family and friends RIP one of the stand out characters of the apprentice."

Nick Hewer, who left his role as Lord Sugar's adviser this year after a decade on the show, tweeted: "So sad to hear of Stuart Baggs' death. Condolences to his family. He will be remembered with affection by all who knew him on Apprentice 6."

Dara O Briain, former presenter of The Apprentice's spin-off programme, wrote: "Sad news about the death of Stuart Baggs. Interviewed him on You're Fired and he was funny and self-effacing. Condolences to his family."

Final interview

Baggs, who recently turned 27, gave an interview to Isle of Man newspapers last week about his latest scheme to bring 4G broadband to the island.

Talking to the paper about his career, he said: "I work, as my hair will tell you, at least 18 hours a day. I sleep for four hours religiously, I would not have it any other way, like Margaret Thatcher."

He said that work gave him "a buzz", adding: "As to the future we are already working on that."

Ex-Apprentice Contestant Stuart Baggs Found Dead
Ex-Apprentice Contestant Stuart Baggs Found Dead

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