Can I get a hell yeah?
After much speculation, ITV has confirmed that Love Island will be returning this summer.
The reality TV dating has surged in popularity in recent years but last summer’s edition was cancelled due to the ever-growing coronavirus issue.
But, as the UK continues to roll out vaccines at an impressive pace, it seems producers saw it time to confirm the series will return for summer 2021.
ITV’s director of television Kevin Lygo said today: “There’s so much to look forward to on ITV this spring and into summer, with the Euros and the return of Love Island, but much more besides.”
While the UK is cautiously set to strip back its lockdown measures in the weeks and months to come, it’s not yet clear if the show, now in its seventh season, will opt to film in Spain, as it usually does, or somewhere considerably closer to home.
Earlier this year, reports were rife that producers were scouting potential locations in Cornwall, Torquay, and even Barry Island.
“Love Island is a huge franchise for the channel,” a source told The Sun at the time.
“As well as bringing in loads of much-needed younger viewers it’s a cash cow. But, as a precautionary measure, producers have looked at several UK sites to hold the series, so if travel restrictions remain strict they have a back-up plan.
“Cornwall has been optioned, as well as Torquay, the Isles of Scilly and even Barry Island, where Gavin and Stacey was filmed.”
The source went on: “ITV bosses are also worried about a fan backlash against the show if contestants are allowed to go away claiming work reasons but the rest of the country is still stuck at home,” the source continued.
“Of course, there are obvious weather restrictions with a UK location — and viewers will see a lot less skin.”
There’s been no official word yet as to where the new season will be filming, but listen, it doesn’t matter. It’s happening. And that’s all we need to know.
