Love Island bosses have no interest in 'fame seekers' who dump their partners to go on the ITV2 dating show.
Wannabe islanders who have signed up to appear on the show are reportedly keeping relationships secret in an effort to become famous by heading to the villa to look for love, despite not being single.
According to The Sun, some potential stars have even dumped their other halves to secure a spot on the show, but bosses have allegedly become aware of the sneaky tactics used by desperate candidates, and have called it out.
A source told the outlet that one fame-hungry budding contestant, who was in the final stages of talks with Love Island bosses, had promised his partner they would “get back together” after he had finished his stint on the show.
Bosses have now had to remind islanders that they have “no interest in fame seekers”, and those who aren’t truly looking for love should stay in the UK, rather than jetting off to Spain.
“They’re savvy to Islanders who think the show is a quick fix to fame and fortune. As has always been the case, Love Island bosses cast single Islanders who are looking for love,” the source explained.
“Nothing else will fly with them. Viewers tune in to watch relationships blossom, it's as simple as that,” they added.
A spokesperson for the show said: “Our only stipulation is Islanders must be over 18, single and looking for love.”
The intensive selection process involves potential cast members being grilled over their relationship status.
Bosses are said to be keen to avoid the scandal that embroiled the show last year, when Lucinda Strafford was accused of having a secret boyfriend caring for her dog at home.
Fans claimed she was dating footballer Aaron Connolly, and Brad McClelland was criticised for making a comment about Lucina trying to boost her profile while in the villa.
While there’s been no official start date confirmed, it’s expected Love Island will be back on our screens on Monday 6 June.
