‘I’VE HAD LOADS OF HOLIDAY ROMANCES’ I
The Love Island host spills the beans on sun, sex and saucy shenanigans f you told us last summer we’d cancel our beer garden plans to watch a bunch of strangers get it on in a Mallorca villa, we’d have called you crazy. Yet, thanks to the sexy goings on
Why do people love the show?
I think that everyone has an interest in relationships. Every day you open the paper or go online and you find out who’s going out with who. We’re so nosy. I think it boils down to everyone wanting to be in love…
Can you always work out how long the couples will last?
No. It’s such an organic show and that’s what I love.
Do you think it’s easier to find love in the sun?
Absolutely – I’ve had many holiday romances that don’t end up working out. There’s definitely something about the sea and the sand and the sun that always makes things extra-sexy.
Ever want to swap places with the contestants?
If I was younger and someone said, “Here’s a ten-week holiday in Mallorca with loads of hot guys”, I’m sure I’d say yes. I wouldn’t be able to hide my feelings in the villa, though. I’m very uncool around someone I fancy.
What advice would you give anyone going on the show?
You can’t force emotions. You don’t have to be the most in love or the most lucky in love to win. It’s about being the most genuine.
Who did you back last year?
Nobody. I think it’s very important for me to stay neutral and support everyone. I feel like a protective mother, especially over the girls. I saw a lot of my younger self in Olivia Buckland last year. Also, Zara Holland was unfairly treated by Miss Great Britain [she was stripped of her title after she had sex with Alex Bowen on the show]. She didn’t have a voice to speak and they very publicly took her title away without telling her. Everyone knew apart from her. It was very unfair.
Were you shocked when [2016 winner] Cara De La Hoyde announced she was pregnant after splitting with Nathan Massey?
I wouldn’t use the word shocked, I’m really happy for her. It’s a positive thing to have come out of what seems like a sad situation at the moment. I hope they work everything out.
Do you get prudish watching the naughty antics in the villa?
I don’t. I have a bit of a giggle. I mean, I don’t sit and watch it again and again, but I’m pretty non-judgemental about it.
Do your friends ask you to matchmake them ?
No, but people are trying to matchmake me all the time.
Will we see more of you on the show this year?
Yes! We are doing a Sunday night live show called
Aftersun. There will be celebrity guests and a live studio audience. The part I’m most excited about is talking to relationship experts who can read a person’s body language. This year will be the best series ever. Love Island is on week nights, ITV2, 9pm
‘Sea, sun and sand always make things extra-sexy’