What felt fresh and spontaneous – beautiful strangers finding love in the sun – now comes with the contestants’ baggage
Love Island: All Stars contestants return to the villa with significant awareness of how to play the game. Photo: ITV
When Love Island first premiered, it quickly became a cultural phenomenon, captivating audiences with its mix of romance, rivalry and heartbreak. The allure of strangers finding love under the sun felt fresh and spontaneous, offering viewers both escapism and drama.
However, the 2025 Love Island: All Stars edition featuring a cast of returning contestants has sparked debate about whether the show still has the same magic that once enthralled millions.
