EMILY Atack has paid a heartfelt tribute to her close friend Charlie Edwards after his tragic death.

The actress, 36, shared her devastation over the loss of the tattoo artist, 26, to whom she was linked in 2021 after they were pictured kissing in London.

Emily Atack's emotional tribute to Charlie Edwards.
Emily Atack shared her heartache over he death of her good friend Charlie EdwardsCredit: Instagram
A man covered in tattoos, wearing a gray beanie, black shorts, and white wireless earbuds, poses for a mirror selfie in a gym.
Tattoo artist Charlie had a big online followingCredit: Social Media
Sharing a smiling selfie with Charlie on Instagram, she wrote: “This is devastating to write. Charlie you were my friend. You were ALWAYS there for me. You dropped everything so many times to come and be with me.

“We talked for hours on end on the phone about absolutely everything. We helped each other.

“You were funny, SO smart, so talented and caring. I can only hope and pray that you have found some peace.

“My heart breaks for your family who will forever be so proud of you. Beautiful boy, beautiful soul. I’m so so sorry. Rest in peace Charlie.”

Popular Charlie had 229,000 followers on Instagram which he used to demonstrate his impressive needlework.

His last post came two weeks ago from a studio in Grimsby and he encouraged new clients to get in touch for sessions in March and April.

Charlie’s brother Jack announced the news earlier in the day, telling followers his brother had a “long and hard fought battle with his mental health”.

He wrote: “I’m speechless to be honest with you and I don’t think it’ll ever feel real but I’m so f**king sorry to everyone to have to tell you.”

Followers gave their condolences. One wrote: “God bless you. Rest in peace beautiful soul.”

Another said: “May you rest in peace.”

Emily was said to be completely taken by the handsome artist five years ago after they were introduced by a mutual friend and had spoken on Instagram.

However, they only dated for three months due to Emily’s busy work schedule.

A source told The Sun at the time: “Emily’s work schedule has been busy lately and she’s had to really focus on making that work.

“She was really into Charlie, who is obviously very handsome, and there was a good spark there, but it’s definitely over.”

Rivals star Emily went on to meet her fiancé Alistair Garner in 2022, and they had a son, Barney, two years later.

In 2025 they got engaged and it has been reported they will tie the knot in Spain this summer.

Emily Atack and Alistair Garner walking hand-in-hand outside a venue.
Emily is engaged to Alistair GarnerCredit: Splash