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ITV’s Love Island is no stranger to controversy, but this year’s series has really set tongues wagging, as more than 430 viewers filed official complaints in just one week.
The hit reality dating show, now in its 12th season, has once again landed in hot water with Ofcom, the UK’s broadcasting regulator, over what some viewers are calling “offensive language” and allegedly biased editing.
According to the watchdog, Love Island episodes on July 9, 11, and 13 alone prompted a total of 432 complaints, with 82 on July 9, a staggering 266 on July 11, and another 84 on July 13.
A season full of drama
This year’s series, which kicked off last month, has already been packed with explosive arguments, awkward recouplings, and plenty of heartbreak under the Mallorca sun.
But fans have become increasingly vocal about what they say are inappropriate comments made by some of the contestants, and what they believe is manipulative editing designed to manufacture drama and influence public opinion.
One disgruntled viewer tweeted:
"The producers really need to stop with the blatant manipulation of storylines. It’s so obvious this year and ruins the whole thing!"
Another posted:
"The way some Islanders are being spoken to is just wrong. Offensive and unacceptable, yet ITV airs it anyway. Complaints incoming!"
Love Island has been hit with another 432 Ofcom complaints over “offensive language and rigged editing.” Pictured: Islander Shakira Khan - Credit: ITV/Shutterstock
ITV responds
ITV has yet to issue a formal response to the latest wave of complaints, though a spokesperson previously told press:
"We are committed to making Love Island a positive experience for both the Islanders and our viewers. We take our duty of care seriously and work hard to ensure the show reflects a range of experiences, while maintaining a safe and respectful environment."
Ofcom will now assess the complaints against the broadcasting code before deciding whether to launch a full investigation.
Not the first time
This isn’t the first time Love Island has been criticised for the way it portrays contestants and relationships. Previous seasons have also attracted thousands of complaints over everything from perceived bullying to excessive alcohol use and even allegations of double standards in the way male and female contestants are treated.
Yet despite the backlash, Love Island remains one of ITV2’s most popular shows, regularly pulling in millions of viewers each night and dominating social media trends.
With weeks still left in the current season, it remains to be seen how producers will address viewers’ concerns, or if even more complaints are on the horizon.
