Laura Whitmore announced she's stepping aside as the host of Love Island UK after three seasons. Laura, who is married to Love Island USA and UK narrator Iain Stirling, began hosting in 2020. She took over for Caroline Flack, who hosted for the first five seasons.
When Caroline stepped aside, she personally requested that Laura take her place on Love Island UK season 6. Tragically, Caroline died by suicide in February 2020. Both Laura and Iain paid tribute to her on the show. After a long hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Laura returned to host the UK dating show for two more years. She also hosted Aftersun, the weekly Love Island after show.
Related: Why Love Island USA's Sarah Hyland Is The Perfect Host
Now that the latest Love Island season has come to a close, Laura revealed it will be her last and explained why she's stepping down. Laura announced the news on her Instagram page. After revealing she will not return for the upcoming winter 2023 season, the podcaster elaborated on why, writing. "There are certain elements of the show I've found very difficult that cannot be changed some due to the format, including the flying back and forth to South Africa along with my new conflicting projects." This appeared to confirm that, instead of the new Mallorca villa where Love Island UK season 8 filmed, the show will return to the South Africa villa, which housed the previous winter season in 2020. On her decision to leave, the actress continued, "I wish it was still possible but know you'll be in safe hands." The mom of one wrapped up the announcement by revealing, "I was only planning to fill in for Caroline for a [season] and it turned into 3 [seasons]." Finally, she paid tribute to her late friend, writing, "I hope I did you proud Caroline."
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Though Laura promised the show will be in good hands, she did not reveal if a replacement host was chosen yet. Throughout the most recent season, many viewers said fan-favorite contestant Ekin-Su CülcüloÄŸlu should host. And last year, there was a brief rumor that Love Island season 5's Maura Higgins would take over for Laura. Of course, this turned out not to be true. In addition to Ekin-Su and Maura, many former islanders like Olivia Atwood, Chris Taylor and Kem Cetinay have also pivoted to hosting careers.
The show's producers may go with a more experienced host to follow in Laura's footsteps. But having a former contestant host would provide certain advantages. For instance, they would be able to relate to the contestants and could provide knowledgeable advice. Many former contestants have also gained massive fan followings in their years since exiting the villa. This could give the already high-rated show even more viewers. Adam Collard's return to Love Island showed that producers are open to bringing back famous alumni. But returning as a contestant is very different from hosting. Regardless, fans will surely keep their eyes open for hosting news and other updates about the upcoming winter Love Island season.
Love Island UK seasons 1-8 are available to stream on Hulu.
Source: Laura Whitmore/Instagram