ITV is facing renewed scrutiny over its duty of care policies for contestants on Love Island, as participants from the 'All Stars' season have reported a negative experience, even worse than their initial appearances on the show. These claims emerge despite ITV's efforts to revamp its aftercare procedures following the suicides of former contestants Sophie Gradon and Mike Thalassitis, and the death of host Caroline Flack.
Contestants Anton Danyluk and Luis Morrison, who both returned for the 'All Stars' series in 2024, stated that despite the updated guidelines, their experiences on the show had not improved. ITV has stated that it does not recognize these claims or that they do not align with its records.
Luis Morrison, who first appeared on the inaugural series in 2015, revealed in the upcoming docuseries 'The Curse Of Love Island' that he sought therapy sessions from ITV after facing significant public backlash following 'All Stars'. Morrison claimed that while the sessions were provided, he ultimately sought external help because he did not find ITV's support sufficient.
Morrison was a fan favorite in his first season, reaching the finals. However, his return for 'All Stars' saw him dumped after eight days amid an argument with fellow contestant Mitchel Taylor. The public reception was largely negative, with Morrison reporting constant death threats and negative messages for months, leading him to a “really, really dark place.” He expressed regret about returning to the show, noting, “I always tried to be this alpha male but I was crying most nights.”
Anton Danyluk, who first appeared in series five in 2019—the first year ITV implemented formal duty of care plans—echoed Morrison's sentiments. Danyluk alleged that during 'All Stars', contestants were placed in situations designed to create maximum drama, which he felt detrimentally affected his mental health. He described the experience as feeling “a lot more produced” than his initial stint and stated he would not participate in reality television again.
Danyluk also recounted struggling with the aftermath of his first appearance, including the transition from fame. He described reaching out to his manager for help and feeling that by the time a response came from producers, the need for support had passed, leaving him feeling “more worthless.” He shared his personal struggles with alcohol and drugs, culminating in a suicide attempt before moving back home and becoming sober.
Other former contestants and associates also shared their experiences in the docuseries, reflecting on the intense public scrutiny and financial instability that can follow the show. Malin Andersson, who was on series two with Sophie Gradon, noted the significant drop in potential earnings from sponsored posts after subsequent seasons aired. Steven Douglas, a childhood friend of Sophie Gradon, stated that Gradon felt pressure from public criticism and trolling, suggesting that her experience on the show contributed to mental health issues.
ITV confirmed that its duty of care procedures have evolved, now including elements like financial training, a social media ban, and training on avoiding gaslighting. The broadcaster stated that its welfare procedures have been developed with medical professionals and that proactive contact is maintained with islanders for 14 months after their series concludes, with additional support offered as needed. ITV also noted that Anton's recollection of a delay in response to his request for help does not align with their records and referred to positive feedback from other former contestants regarding the welfare support provided.