LOVE ISLAND UK RETURNS FOR SEASON 13 AND WE JUST CAN’T GET ENOUGH
LAUNCHING EXCLUSIVELY ON 9NOW
The days are about to get a lot hotter when Love Island UK returns for season 13, launching exclusively on 9Now, today (Wednesday, June 3) at 12.00pm AEST, with new episodes dropping daily, including weekends.
The stylish Maya Jama is back as the host again, welcoming a brand new bunch of Islanders to the Love Island Villa in Mallorca, Spain.
It will be a summer full of twists, turns and tests as the Islanders must couple up in the hope of finding a genuine connection, or they must clear out.
You won’t want to miss this season, which promises even more unmissable and unforgettable moments of messiness and plenty of romance.
LOVE ISLAND UK SEASON 13:
PREMIERES TODAY AT 12.00PM AEST ON 9NOW
Clickbait. We reveal the reason he left. It’s private and he won’t reveal it. So in other words we still don’t know but thanks for the clicks. 
Explosive REAL reason George was axed from Love Island – that he desperately tried to cover up
George Knight, 27, left the current series of the ITV dating show after six days and told The Sun he’d taken the decision after learning worrying health news about an immediate family member.
But we can now reveal that story – whilst true – was used to mask another reason for his exit.
George was formally warned for using “unacceptable language” in the villa and was sent packing.
UPDATE 4/7
Later this year
Move over, America, the Aussies are stealing your love nest!
Love Island Australia is back for an eighth season, and this year it is taking over the renowned Love Island USA villa in tropical Fiji. The one and only Sophie Monk returns as host, bringing more than just smoking-hot singles to the ultimate dream destination.
This season’s villa will be controlled by The Power Couples, and you will not believe the absolute chaos they create. Who are they? All will be revealed.
ITV Creative Director, Alex Mavroidakis, said: “Last year was peak Love Island Australia, but we have found a way to make the show even better. Thanks to our American landlords, we’ve filled the best Love Island villa in the world with the most unfiltered and flawless-looking cast of singles.
“If you like non-stop shocks, epic betrayals, proper LOLs, love triangles and love stories, then the new season of Love Island Australia is the place for you.”
Season seven was the most-watched Love Island Australia ever, and it received a record number of finale votes. It saw significant year-on-year growth, with the launch episode numbering a whopping total of 680,000 viewers on 9Now. To date, Love Island Australia 2025 has recorded an average BVOD audience of 627,000 per episode, and 959 million minutes streamed.
Now, which new couple from season eight will resist the temptations, pass the love tests, emerge as the nation’s favourites, and win $50,000?
This season is getting ‘VillaMaxxed’ with an exclusive new extension on Stan for the first time - Love Island Australia: Unseen. Uncut. With daily drops of unseen and exclusive footage, audiences get VIP access to the Islanders in the raw. See for yourself the love and the drama as it plays out. It’s real villa life, in real time, unfiltered and unpredictable.
Love Island Australia, again narrated by our sharp-tongued Irishman Eoghan McDermott, is produced by ITV Studios Australia for the 9Network.
STAN: Love Island Australia: Unseen. Uncut
Love Island Australia is getting an exclusive series on Stan. Audiences will have access to more Love Island than ever before, with a daily drop of unseen and uncut feeds direct from the Villa, as audiences get VIP access to the Islanders. Think they’ve been clipped to look a certain way? See for yourself. It’s real villa life in real time, unfiltered and unpredictable.
Love Island Australia: Unseen. Uncut premieres on October 26 with new episodes on Mondays to Thursdays, according to Stan’s October highlights released today.
That means Nine’s broadcast should also start on October 26.
LOVE ISLAND AUSTRALIA TAKES OVER THE USA VILLA
PREMIERING MONDAY, OCTOBER 26 ON CHANNEL 9 AND 9NOW
Get ready Australia, your prayers are about to be answered!
Love Island Australia season eight premieres on Monday, October 26.
This season is taking over the renowned Love Island USA villa in tropical Fiji for the first time.
Love Island Australia is produced by ITV Studios Australia for the 9Network.
LOVE ISLAND AUSTRALIA TURNS HEADS IN THE USA VILLA
PREMIERING MONDAY, OCTOBER 26, AT 10.00AM AEDT ON 9NOW
Blockquote
Love Island Australia season eight truly sets the scene for a beautiful love story, premiering on Monday, October 26, dropping at 10.00am on 9Now and at 8.30pm on Channel 9, Monday to Thursday AEDT.
This season is bigger and better, taking over the renowned Love Island USA villa in tropical Fiji for the first time. The one and only Sophie Monk returns as host, bringing more than just smoking-hot singles to the ultimate dream destination.
This season’s villa will be controlled by The Power Couples, and you will not believe the absolute chaos they create. Who are they? They are living proof that you can find true love in the villa: Claudia and Austen (season four winners), Kale and Tyra (season five winners), Georgia and Nate (season five), Eric and Kaylah (season six), Kye and Yana (season seven winners) and Connor and Isabel (season seven).
ITV Creative Director, Alex Mavroidakis, said: “Last year was peak Love Island Australia, but we have found a way to make the show even better. Thanks to our American landlords, we’ve filled the best Love Island villa in the world with the most unfiltered and flawless-looking cast of singles. If you like non-stop shocks, epic betrayals, proper LOLs, love triangles and love stories, the new season of Love Island Australia is the place for you.”
Season seven was the most-watched Love Island Australia ever, and it received a record number of finale votes. It saw significant year-on-year growth, with the launch episode reaching a whopping total of 680,000 viewers on 9Now. To date, Love Island Australia 2025 has recorded an average BVOD audience of 627,000 per episode, and 959 million minutes streamed.
This season is getting VillaMaxxed with an exclusive new companion series only on Stan - Love Island Australia: Unseen. Uncut. premiering on Monday, October 26. With drops of unseen and exclusive footage Monday to Thursday, audiences get VIP access to the Islanders in the raw. See for yourself the love and the drama as it plays out. It’s real villa life, in real time, unfiltered and unpredictable.
Now which new couple from season eight will resist the temptations, pass the love tests and emerge as the nation’s favourites, and win $50,000?
Love Island Australia, again narrated by our sharp-tongued Irishman Eoghan McDermott, is produced by ITV Studios Australia for the 9Network.
THE BOYS
LACHIE
26, Chiropractor Sydney
Meet Lachie, the Eastern Suburbs chiropractor. He’s handsome, jacked, immaculately designer-dressed and fully aware of all three.
After studying chiropractic science in Townsville, Lachie returned to Sydney with one mission: make up for lost time. And judging by his social calendar, he’s doing an excellent job. Between Club Rose Bay, fashion events, modelling gigs and content creation, he’s become a familiar face on the Sydney social scene.
Single for three years, Lachie claims he’s looking for something real. He’s upfront about his “type”, liking women who are fit, slim, and take care of themselves.
He has been in hot water in the past, posting outspoken viral TikToks, but he stands by his opinions, even if it rubs people up the wrong way.
Models slide into his DMs, influencers fly interstate to see him. While Lachie insists he has matured, his mates would probably say otherwise.
FIVE MINUTES WITH
Have you had success dating conventionally, or do you think the villa environment could work better for you?
Dating in Sydney these days is pretty casual, so being in that confined environment could actually help fast-track real connection. There’s no hiding from tough conversations in the villa.
When were you last in love?
About four years ago, right after COVID lockdown. I’ve had two relationships since, both around a year and a half, that were good, but looking back I’m not sure I was in love the way I’d want it to feel. I’ve been single since then.
Have you got any party tricks?
I can crack my own spine, joints, back, neck, hips, the lot. It’s oddly satisfying and I do it constantly, so if you hear cracking noises on the show, that’s probably me.
Do you have a type?
Physical attraction matters first for me, but beyond that I’m drawn to women who like spontaneous adventures, camping, random activities, rather than always five-star luxury. As I’ve gotten older I care more about character and humility than just beauty. Intellect and good conversation are attractive to me.
How would you describe yourself in three words?
Confident, carefree and fitness-focused.
JARRAR
22, Diesel Fitter Wollongong
Meet Jarrar, the FIFO diesel fitter from Wollongong who is constantly mistaken for rugby league heartthrob Reece Walsh. The boys at work call him “Walshy from Wish" and when girls come up to him on a night out to point it out, Jarrar’s favourite pickup line? “Tomorrow you can tell your friends you got with Reece Walsh!”
He is cheeky, confident, and always the loudest in every room whether he’s at the gym, on the dirt bikes or out with the boys. He’ll happily bark at attractive women walking past, which sounds like it shouldn’t work, but according to Jarrar it does.
When it comes to women, Jarrar knows exactly what he likes. His dream girl is hot, energetic and has a great butt.
Despite his age, Jarrar isn’t afraid to date older women. One recent fling with a 40-year-old left quite an impression on him.
Behind the laddish exterior, Jarrar is looking for something serious after three long-term relationships. So watch out, fellas, he’s coming for your girl.
FIVE MINUTES WITH
What are your hobbies?
Dirt bikes and rugby league, but my biggest hobby right now is the gym. I do online personal training and coaching for people and it barely feels like extra work.
Is having that kind of purpose and impact in your work important to you?
Definitely. I used to be bigger and I know what it’s like not wanting to take your shirt off. Now I take it off any chance I get. Seeing the shift in people’s confidence and personality is a great feeling.
How do you feel about taking risks: calculated or all in?
Calculated risks. I weigh it up. If it’s going to be seriously detrimental, no, but if the consequences are liveable, I’ll take the risk. I’ve only got one life.
Is going on Love Island Australia a risk?
Definitely, but I’m going to be true to myself throughout. If people don’t like that, that’s on them, I know I’ve stayed genuine.
How would you describe yourself in three words?
Moustache, mullet, muscles.
JACK
24, Tradie Trainer Gold Coast
Jack often gets asked if he’s AI-generated, believed to be too good looking to be real. But you better believe this tatted and tanned Gold Coast bad boy is the REAL deal.
He might look like your stereotype Gold Coast tradie, but don’t be fooled. With a background in business and sales, he trains tradesmen on how to become more presentable and profitable. From teaching grown men how to dress and communicate better, Jack helps to turn tradies into sales machines. And if flirting were a trade, Jack would be a qualified professional.
Jack loves to claim he’s not a player, yet his track record tells a different story. He has even been known to get tattoos with girls’ names to prove how serious he is.
Originally from Townsville, he swapped regional Queensland for the bright lights of the Gold Coast. He surfs, drives boats, camps, loves a 4WD adventure and isn’t afraid to get his hands dirty. He’s the rugged sort of man the girls demand.
FIVE MINUTES WITH
Why did you want to go on the show?
It’s a chance to meet people I wouldn’t normally meet, and I’m also at a stage in life where I’d love to find a long-term partner. On top of getting to see somewhere new it felt like a no-brainer.
What’s one thing people will be most surprised to learn about you?
That I’m not just a pretty face. I’m really driven, with multiple businesses on the outside, and I work hard.
Do you want to find love? When were you last in love?
I want a relationship. The last time I was in love was with my ex. We were together for three years, and it was great, but it just didn’t work out.
What about hobbies and sports?
I played semi-professional rugby and I’ve had a few boxing fights. I love the outdoors, fishing, boats, hunting, anything ocean-related.
Tell us about your work?
I’m a qualified electrician and refrigeration mechanic by trade, but these days I mostly work in sales for a couple of companies on the Gold Coast. I’m also starting my own sales training business, teaching tradies how to sell. I noticed a real gap there and it’s one of my strong suits.
How would you describe yourself in three words?
Driven, spontaneous and charming.
KEANU
25, Tradie Sydney
Meet Keanu, a cheeky Kiwi chappy complete with Maori tattoos, a wandering eye, one coy smile and a corny pickup line.
After moving to Australia at 17, Keanu pursued a career in the NRL, playing for the North Queensland Cowboys and later the Newcastle Knights. He’s the rare ex-footy player all our aspiring WAG Islanders can’t resist. But even better, this one has the personality to match.
Knowing his football career was coming to an end, Keanu picked up the tools, embracing life as a tradie. Having achieved what most young athletes only dream of, he now carries an optimistic confidence and energy that’s impossible not to be drawn to.
Despite his wicked playboy ways, with his infectious laughter, killer dimples and a class-clown personality, he’s the type of guy who can cause absolute chaos one day and somehow have everyone forgiving him the next.
FIVE MINUTES WITH
Why did you want to go on the show?
I live by “why not”. I’ve got nothing to lose and everything to gain: experience, a free holiday, a new country. And I’m locked in a villa with single women all looking for a connection too, so why not.
Is family important to you?
Completely. I’m a mummy’s boy through and through
Is there a rumour or assumption about you that you’d want to set straight?
I do give off red-flag energy at first, but deep down I’m quite soft-natured.
What’s your process, attraction first, then personality?
Looks get you through the door, but character is what makes someone stay. My type is a brunette with pretty eyes and an athletic build, but beyond that it’s about who they are.
How would you handle something serious, like being cheated on?
I’d just leave without saying a word, full ghost. Once respect is broken it’s done, and it’s not worth the time to address it.
How would you describe yourself in three words?
Tall, dark and handsome.
OLI
26, Personal Trainer Perth
Oli is a jacked personal trainer from Perth whose claim to fame came when his thirst trap went viral thanks to a photographer nobody expected: his Nan.
Oli admits his biggest issue with dating is “I’m just too tall and handsome.” But towering at six-five, with a rocking rig and luxurious locks, his looks can get him almost anyone – and we mean anyone!
Having dated international models and global influencers, Oli insists he is after more than a one-night stand. He craves a genuine emotional connection and considers himself the most emotionally available player on the West Coast.
Growing up as the nerdy, overweight kid, Oli experienced the ultimate glow-up later in life. Already the most popular secret crush in Western Australia, the villa might be no different.
FIVE MINUTES WITH
What are you looking for, a specific type, or open to surprises?
I tend to go for petite, brown-haired, brown-eyed, tanned women, but I’m open to everything. What matters more is personality, someone quirky, funny, who doesn’t take themselves too seriously. I find a lot of attractive people can be a bit dull, and I love a bit of spice and fun.
What’s the one thing people will be most surprised to learn about you?
People probably expect me to be an “fboy” from the way I come across, but I’m actually a lover boy, a total mama’s boy, very close with my mum and nan, and I prefer spending time with women. I’m a mindful, deep person who likes getting past surface-level stuff.
Will you fall quickly, or take time exploring connections?
Once I know, I know. If I find someone I’m genuinely into, I’ll be locked in and won’t be looking elsewhere. But I’m not opposed to exploring other connections respectfully along the way.
How are you mentally preparing in the lead-up to entering the villa?
I go for walks when things feel like too much. I’m trying to journal leading up to it to stay grounded, and I do some breathing-based meditation. I also like talking through my emotions. My brother and I have pretty deep conversations, which has always helped.
What’s something people will find out about you in the villa?
I’m pretty funny and I tend to say what I’m thinking before I think it through. My laugh is pretty ridiculous too.
How would you describe yourself in three words?
Empathetic, funny and strong-minded.
THE GIRLS
SHAWNEE
27, Online Fitness Coaching Business Gold Coast
Shawnee is the kind of girl who steals the attention of every room she walks into, with her larger-than-life, hundred-mile-an-hour personality that stops everyone in their tracks. It’s a name you ain’t easily forgetting.
A personal trainer, Shawnee is not your average Gold Coast gym girl. This bikini model doesn’t do anything by halves, and she is building a thriving online fitness-coaching business.
Fresh out of a rollercoaster on-again, off-again relationship with a previous Islander, Shawnee is now officially sexy, single and ready to mingle. Drawn to big personalities just like her own, she says the quiet and shy types simply don’t spark her interest.
With a tendency to overshare and a face incapable of hiding what she’s really thinking, landing her in plenty of chaos over the years, we have a feeling that chaos will be following her into the villa.
FIVE MINUTES WITH
How are you feeling about going into the villa?
Excited. I don’t know what to expect, but I’m a high-energy person, so it’s going to be crazy. I feel like I’m going to thrive.
Do first impressions count for you, or do you give people time to grow on you?
Both. I’m a people person, so first impressions aren’t make-or-break, but I love when I can vibe with someone straight away. If someone matches my energy we’ll probably connect more naturally.
Do you think people will have quick judgments or assumptions about you?
You’ll love me or hate me. I have this underlying thought that I’ll come across as “that annoying girl”, but in a fun way. People also expect me to be high energy all the time, so when I have downtime they might wonder what’s wrong. I’m an extroverted introvert, a bit of a chameleon depending on the situation.
Is there anything that gives you the ick straight away?
Obnoxious, rude behavior or a superiority complex is a big turn-off for me. And chewed-up nails!
How would you describe yourself in three words?
Energetic, chaotic and genuine.
LAYLA
22, Global Learning Manager & Pilates Instructor Canberra
Layla is Canberra’s self-proclaimed hottest export, with the face, the body and the ego to back it up. Outside the pilates studio she’s all about glam dinners, nightclubbing and girls’ trips, and Sydney is basically her second home.
Her dream man is a tall, ethnic 10/10 with a solid career, big energy and enough confidence to keep up with her fiery Aries personality.
She’s had two serious relationships and multiple soul-destroying situationships. Her most recent heartbreak still stings. Layla thought she’d finally met “the one”. After one stupid fight, her boyfriend ghosted her for weeks and dumped her seven days before their Europe trip, before going without her.
Layla dazzles wherever she goes and the villa will be no different! She is a stunning mix of Fijian-Australian and African-American who looks like a Disney princess.
FIVE MINUTES WITH
What’s the one thing people will be most surprised to learn about you?
That there are lots of different sides to me. At first I might come across with a hard exterior, but I’m really loving, kind, sweet, funny, and quite intelligent. A lot of people don’t expect that.
Do you put a wall up and let people in slowly, or go all in fast?
I have my walls up, but for the right person, if you catch my attention, I fall quickly. Otherwise the walls stay up and you just get a bit of flirtation, nothing more.
Is there a rumour or assumption about you that you’d like to set straight?
People probably assume I’m bitchy because of that hard exterior, but I do make an effort to be kind to everyone.
Beyond finding love, what else do you want to get out of the show?
Love is the main thing. I’m sick of dating in Canberra and nothing working. I’m also bored living there. If I wasn’t doing this I’d probably be living in Europe somewhere. I’m craving the challenge and a whole new experience, meeting a new group of people.
How would you describe yourself in three words, going into the villa?
Hot, fiery and multifaceted.
AMANDA
26, Part-time Jeweller and Model Sydney
It doesn’t stop with Amanda’s beauty, she’s strategic, emotionally intelligent, persuasive – and a straight-A student.
Since ending her relationship, Amanda has gone through a full post-breakup transformation, losing 12 kilos and levelling up her confidence. She’s magnetic, emotionally open and ready to fall hard for the kind of love that consumes you in the best way possible.
She’s after a tall, tattooed, emotionally steady guy with dark features and enough confidence to obsess over her properly. Nonchalance is her biggest turn-off and she believes if a man likes you, you should never have to question it.
FIVE MINUTES WITH
How are you feeling about going on Love Island Australia?
So excited. It doesn’t feel real, but I know the universe has given this to me, so I’m all for it.
What feeds your intelligence? Reading and study?
I’m naturally curious, I love to learn. I grew up watching the news and reading National Geographic from second grade. My brain is like a sponge. I pick up on patterns and connect things quickly, and I’m good at reading people too.
Tell me about your last relationship and where you’re at now.
It ended around April last year after five and a half years. I went through an era of finding myself again outside that relationship, setting boundaries through the dating I did. I’ve become a lot stronger and now feel ready to meet someone who can meet me at that level. So it’s time.
How do you think you’ll approach connections in the villa? Physical attraction first or getting to know them on a deeper level?
I’d love to get to know the boys more than go straight for my type – people can surprise you. I’m looking for something long-term, so I need to fall for someone’s mind, not just their body. Chemistry alone isn’t enough without compatibility.
How do you feel about ghosting versus communication?
Communication is essential. Ghosting while still physically present in that kind of environment reads as immaturity. If someone shows me they can’t communicate through hard conversations, I know they’re not for me. I’ll also take accountability myself when I’m in the wrong, even though it’s hard on my pride.
How would you describe yourself in three words?
Fun, confident and bossy.
NATALIE
23, Airline Ground Crew Gold Coast
Natalie is a fiery pocket rocket from Mackay in far North Queensland who works for an airline as ground crew. She has a serious ability to give as good as she gets, dealing with angry travellers and delayed flights.
Dating on the Gold Coast has left Natalie exhausted. According to her, the city is crawling with influencer boys, fake personalities and men who are allergic to commitment.
Despite the chaos, Natalie is a huge lover girl who falls hard, fast and often. She has had two serious relationships, both lasting three years, and wants her next one to be her last.
Natalie is looking for a funny, emotionally intelligent man who can match her banter while calming her down when she sees red.
FIVE MINUTES WITH
How are you feeling about going on Love Island Australia?
It’s a huge shock. Everything has gone from nought to a hundred real quick. I’m juggling a new job and moving house at the same time, so it’s chaotic. But I’m excited and nervous and trying to have no expectations, just fun.
What’s the one thing people will be most surprised to learn about you?
I come across as high maintenance, maybe even a bit posh or stuck-up, but once you hear me speak I’m way more relaxed and bogan. I repeat memes, I’m ADHD and bubbly, and I love a good laugh. People are usually surprised at how warm, kind and funny I am.
Will you fall quickly, or take your time getting to know people?
I wear my heart on my sleeve, so I do fall quickly, often for the wrong people or reasons. Having multiple options in front of me in person, rather than behind a screen, will be a real test. I’m hoping I back myself, spot the red flags, and take my own advice for once.
Are you afraid of conflict, or do you welcome it?
I get anxious about conflict, but if something needs to be said, I’ll usually be the first to say it, even while feeling scared about it. I don’t tolerate nastiness, gossiping or bullying. I try to stay clear of drama otherwise.
How would you describe yourself in three words?
Full-on, funny, flirty – plus switched-on and intuitive.
PHOEBE
23, Funemployed Adelaide/London
Meet Phoebe, a hilarious, bubbly blonde who is South Australia’s home-grown princess. She was raised in elite private schools and fed with a silver spoon.
Phoebe has every opportunity to never work a day in her life. However, after managing to spend $70,000 of a sizable inheritance from her grandmother in six months, she might need to put her commerce degree to use sooner than expected.
Ask Phoebe just one question – “Boys?” – and she’ll talk for hours. A hopeless romantic, she falls hard and fast all the time.
Phoebe is the perfect combination of cute and completely chaotic. A lovable whirlwind ready to bring equal part comedy, romance and absolute chaos to the villa.
FIVE MINUTES WITH
Why did you want to do the show?
Both wanting a new experience and being out of my comfort zone, and also because everything I’ve done with dating in the past hasn’t worked. Trying something completely different in a new environment feels exciting.
What’s one thing people will be surprised to learn about you?
I don’t come across as a dramatic person, but I am. I’m also incredibly emotional. I cry at everything, even TikToks and TV ads. I’m empathetic, so if someone tells me a sad story I’ll burst into tears.
Any rumour or assumption about you that you’d like to set straight?
Maybe that being blonde makes me seem ditsy. I’m actually well educated, with two degrees, even if my bubbly personality makes me come across otherwise sometimes.
Any childhood hobbies or sports that might surprise people?
I’m a big theatre kid. I’ve been in around 70 plays and 30 musicals, and I love anything creative: drawing, painting, film (I have a film degree). Sport-wise, I’ve played tennis my whole life, though I wouldn’t call myself athletically built.
Beyond finding love, what do you want to get out of the show?
Self-discovery around dating. I make friends easily so that’s not a concern, but I feel like I’ve historically given all my love to the wrong people, and I want to use this experience to understand myself better so I can give that love to the right person.
How would you describe yourself in three words?
Chaotic, fun (or loyal) and embarrassing.
BOMBS
AVA
24, Traffic Controller Perth
Ava the Geordie bombshell swapped gloomy Newcastle in the UK for some sweet Perth sunshine and hasn’t looked back.
By day Ava works as a traffic controller. By night she’s usually sipping rosé with the girls, soaking up attention on the West Coast.
If a guy is funny, muscly and tanned, he’s got her attention. She’s had three serious relationships. The longest lasted over two years. Then she caught him with another woman. According to Ava, she reacted like any heartbroken woman would: first came the dog poo in the letterbox, then the slashed tyres.
These days Ava is looking for a man who can make her laugh, match her energy, and most importantly, keep his eyes to himself.
FIVE MINUTES WITH
When were you last in love?
I was properly in love around 2020 to 2022. I got my heart broken after that and it put me off dating for about a year. I didn’t speak to anyone.
Do you say “I love you” easily or hold back?
It just slips out sometimes. I’ve probably said it a million times to different people, even after just having a dream about someone.
Is there a rumour or assumption about you that you’d want to set straight?
People often assume that because I’m a “beautiful girl” I must be a bitch. I get told all the time that people expected me to be rude but found I’m really nice. I don’t think I have a resting bitch face, I’m always laughing and smiling.
How do you deal with attention on work sites as a traffic controller?
I just have to ignore it. Some people are rude, but you put your armour on and let it go. You develop a thick skin and learn to take criticism.
Do you talk things out and move on or hold a grudge?
I’m a bit stubborn, but otherwise I’ll just laugh things off. How would you describe yourself in three words? Fun, adventurous and spontaneous.
JORDAN
24, Airbnb Owner Canberra
Jordan is the son of a former Prime Minister of Tonga who is well travelled, charming, cheeky and confident.
Jordan has spent a decade living in Canberra after being sent to an elite private school. A self-made “international landlord”, he owns a small property portfolio in Tonga of premium apartments to rent for diplomats and high-profile guests.
He spends his time travelling the world, collecting stamps in his passport, and meeting women in every city he lands in. He jokes he’s got “at least two girls in every port”. However he always lands back in Australia just in time to find a petite latina hottie with big personality to date.
Jordan claims he no longer has to flirt. You just know when he gives you that look that it’s game on.
FIVE MINUTES WITH
Are you open to finding love?
I am and I want to find it, but I’m happy to get to know all the women there too. I just want a great experience and to make good friends. If a real connection comes up I’ll explore it, even if that means with every Islander in there.
When was the last time you were in love?
I love hard, but I’m not sure I’ve ever been truly in love. I think I love the idea of love and fall pretty deep into it. The last time would have been around last year.
Are you afraid of conflict or do you welcome it?
I welcome it. If I want something and there’s an obstacle in the way, I’ll push through to get it. That applies to everything in life, not just women.
Any sporting hobbies?
I used to play footy a lot. I still hit the gym and run. Running’s a big part of my mental clarity, a way to shut the world off.
How would you describe yourself in three words?
Charming, cheeky and confident.
ZEL
29, Model Gold Coast
Merizel, “Zel”, is the ultimate heartthrob, turning heads with his six-one frame, washboard abs and drool-worthy looks. With a mixed cultural heritage and raised in the UK, Zel speaks four languages: English, Portuguese, Spanish and French.
Zel was a professional footballer who was in the West Ham development squad before moving to the Australian league. After injuries cut his playing career short, he was scouted by modelling agencies and now works with major athletic brands including Nike, Adidas and Under Armour as an international model.
Zel is searching for his equal, the perfect mix of chaos and calmness, a woman bold enough to pull him into line while being kind and caring.
Having had a serious long-term relationship, Zel knows exactly what he wants and isn’t willing to settle. He’s the guy every bloke worries about walking into the villa: Mr Steal Your Girl.
FIVE MINUTES WITH
Was going on Love Island something you’d thought about before, or did the timing just work out?
I was meant to go on the UK version but it didn’t work out. Now I’m here. I figured it’s time to find someone and settle down, since I’m not getting any younger.
What’s the one thing people will be most surprised to learn about you?
My goofy side. No one really knows that about me. I’m a class clown, always having a laugh, never taking myself too seriously.
Do you have a specific type, or are you open to being surprised?
I want to be surprised. But my usual pull is curly hair, a bit funny, and, being a gunda guy myself, I love a gunda (bigger build) type.
Are you afraid of conflict or do you welcome it?
I’m good in tense situations. I don’t get sucked into it or get angry. I’m a chill, nonchalant person, and I tend to flip the energy rather than let it wind me up.
How would you describe yourself in three words?
Boisterous, funny and cunning.
SAMMI
23, Model and Content Creator Whangārei New Zealand
Sammi is the official beauty queen. She lives in the small town of Whangārei with her family but grew up in South Africa. She spent the last year travelling the world as Miss New Zealand, but finding a decent man has proven harder than winning the crown.
Her last serious relationship lasted three years. Since then, despite having flings with a few All Black rugby stars, Sammi hasn’t been kissed in nearly two years. She has found dating in Whangārei almost impossible, and between her Miss New Zealand commitments, dating has gone on the back burner.
Sammi isn’t afraid of a little competition – after all, she beat 170 girls to get her crown, so coming into the villa, she’ll be going for the exact guy that catches her eye.
FIVE MINUTES WITH
Was this something you’d always thought about, or did the opportunity just present itself?
My motto is to always say yes when an opportunity comes up. The timing worked out perfectly. I used to watch the show at uni with friends, now to think I’ll be on it is crazy.
What’s one thing people will be surprised to learn about you?
That I love games, video games, board games, solitaire, all of it. My two older brothers live in Thailand, so playing games online is how we stay connected.
Will you go for your usual type or explore something different?
I’ve always gone for athletes, rugby, soccer, basketball players, and it never works out. This time I want to be true to myself but push outside my comfort zone and think it through before jumping in, rather than just going on attraction.
Any childhood hobbies or sports that might surprise people?
I did gymnastics growing up. I also love adventures, hiking, beach walks, usually with my dog Biscuit, who’s the love of my life. Whoever I meet has to be a dog person – non-negotiable.
Are you an open book or do you hold things back?
I’m probably the most open book you’ll meet. Direct and straightforward, sometimes without a filter. I think it’s a South African thing. My whole family is like that.
How would you describe yourself in three words?
Bubbly, empathetic and loyal.
Wow 10am drop is an interesting move. Gives people plenty of time to watch Love Island before Big Brother.
I wonder if BB played into that?
GET YOUR VIP ACCESS TO THE VILLA IN THE STAN ORIGINAL LOVE ISLAND AUSTRALIA: UNSEEN. UNCUT. PREMIERING OCTOBER 26.
Love Island Australia is getting VillaMaxxed with an exclusive new companion series only on Stan – Love Island Australia: Unseen. Uncut. premiering on Monday, October 26. With drops of unseen and exclusive footage Monday to Thursday, audiences get VIP access to the Islanders in the raw. See for yourself the love and the drama as it plays out. It’s real villa life, in real time, unfiltered and unpredictable.
Love Island Australia: Unseen. Uncut. premieres October 26, only on Stan.
Nine should launch Love Island on the Monday at 8.40 when this series of The Block is almost finished.