Former reality television star Chloe Lewis has paid an emotional tribute to Jake Hall following his sudden death at the age of 35. The pair, who first met as teenagers, shared a long and often public relationship both on and off screen before parting ways in 2016.

Lewis, also 35, reflected on their nearly decade-long connection, describing Hall as her “first love” and “childhood sweetheart.” She highlighted the profound impact he had on her life, noting that their time together taught her valuable lessons about herself and life more broadly.

The tribute, posted on Instagram, included a video montage of photos and clips of the couple accompanied by John Legend’s song "Ordinary People." In her message, Lewis acknowledged Hall’s complex personality, referring to him as “a complete pain in the a*** most of the time,” but emphasizing his “purest heart” and “greatest soul.” She added that he influenced many lives beyond her own.

Lewis also focused on Hall’s role as a father, recalling his devotion to their eight-year-old daughter, River. She praised him for embracing parenthood, saying it was the most important part of his life and that he “made it look so easy.”

The pair were known for being “inseparable” during their teenage years, with Lewis recounting how Hall made her feel cherished and valued. Their relationship, which played out partly in the public eye through the reality series The Only Way Is Essex (TOWIE), saw various ups and downs before concluding in 2016.

Details surrounding Hall’s passing have not been disclosed. His death has prompted an outpouring of grief from those close to him, with Lewis among the first to pay tribute to his memory.