Jacques O'Neill, the ex boyfriend of Gemma Owen, has been released from his rugby contract, as viewers get set to see him cause carnage in the Love Island villa.
In the closing moments of Friday's episode, ITV2 viewers saw images of Jacques flash up on screen as Love Island narrator Iain Stirling that he was the next bombshell of the show's new series. And then came the big bit of drama, when, on clocking him, Michael Owen's daughter Gemma shouted: "Oh god. That's my ex boyfriend!"
As credits rolled, fans of Love Island rushed to find out the name of Gemma's ex, as that was kept under wraps in the teaser, as well as trying to find out more information. Jacques, 23, is a Barrow born rugby player, who most recently played for Castleford Tigers. But now the northern team have confirmed that he has been given permission to go into the villa and released from his contract.
READ MORE: Who is Gemma Owen's ex? Love Island shaken up by Jacques O'Neill's dramatic entrance
A statement on the club website reads: "Castleford Tigers can confirm that the Club has agreed to release Jacques O’Neill from his contract to allow him to pursue another opportunity. The Tigers have the first option to sign O’Neill back next year should he wish to return to rugby league.
“Known for a fearless attitude on the field by Castleford supporters, the Cumbrian born 23-year-old is a proud product of the Tigers’ youth system having come through both our Scholarship and Academy programmes before making his Super League debut.
“Castleford Tigers would like to wish Jacques well with his new opportunity and thank him for his efforts as a Tiger so far.”
As viewers speculate just what drama Jacques will cause in the villa, they can look forward to getting a first look at him in action at 9pm on Sunday.
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