Crystal blue Fiji water, summer sun, 30 singles searching for love—and a whole lot of drama. “Love Island” has hooked millions of viewers worldwide, and Bishop Gorman students are no exception. From shocking recouplings to playful challenges, the show’s romance and twists consumed social media feeds all summer long.
The recouplings—when contestants choose their partners—are a fan favorite. Sadie Crafton 28’ agrees. “I think it’s the most entertaining part to see who people pick… a lot of drama happens in the recouplings.” In contrast, Jayden Smith 26’ preferred the challenges. “I feel like you get to see the real personalities of the people on these shows… you get a glimpse into what they would be like in normal life.”
Beyond the drama of activities, fan loyalties stirred controversy. Some loved Iris for her laid-back vibe while others supported Ace for his humor and energy. Paige Zipf 27’ admired Huda for her boldness stating she “stirred the pot”. Smith, however, stated “my favorite contestant this season was probably Hannah…she wasn’t in very much drama, she kind of stayed neutral, and she was getting along with everyone the whole season.”
As for couples, some were captivated by Chelly and Ace’s relationship grow from day one, some related to the toxicity of Jeremiah and Huda, while plenty were rooting for Nic and Olandria as they progressed from friends to lovers. In the end, however, Bryan and Amaya took home the $100,000 cash prize as fan favorites. Zipf adored this relationship and cherished the couple’s victory. “I think Amaya brings just the best energy. She’s just like the light of the show. I love her so much.”
At the same time, some viewers were disappointed that Nic and Olandria — nicknamed “Nicolandria”—didn’t win. Crafton expressed her concern “I think they [Nic and Olandria] had a better connection than who actually won.” Smith agrees “I think that Nic and Olandria deserved to win because throughout everything, they were the least toxic couple and dint have any problems on screen.”
Whether students tuned in for the recouplings, challenges, or drama, one thing is clear: “Love Island” was the show of the summer. With the debates, conversations, and opinions it sparked all over Bishop Gorman’s campus, the show’s biggest victory was keeping everyone watching—and talking—till the very end
