Love Island has been criticised by a domestic abuse charity for bringing back former islander Adam Collard
(Picture: ITV)Women’s Aid has criticised Love Island’s decision to bring back former contestant Adam Collard after he was accused of gaslighting when he first appeared on the show in 2018.
The domestic abuse charity previously warned Adam displayed “clear warning signs” towards love interest Rosie Williams such as “questioning her memory of events, trivialising her thoughts or feelings, and turning things around to blame her”.
Now the charity have reiterated how “serious” the issue of gaslighting is in a new statement about Adam’s return.
Women’s Aid said: “In the 2018 series of Love Island, we saw Rosie rightly call out Adam for his unacceptable behaviour, which included gaslighting and emotional abuse.
“We hope that ITV recognise how serious this issue is and that it must be learned from, considering they have asked Adam to return to the show.
“Love Island is watched by many young people and we know what a huge influence it has. Producers must make sure there is support for contestants throughout, and intervene if relationships become unhealthy or abusive.”
Love Island has Duty of Care protocols which states extensive welfare measures remain in place to provide support to programme participants before, during and after filming.
The 26-year-old personal trainer from Newcastle’s return was announced on Sunday.
His return marks the first time in Love Island history that a contestant from a past series has been brought back to the villa.
Speaking about his comeback, Adam said he intended to “ruffle a few feathers” and he has already caused a stir within the villa.
Earlier on Tuesday, it emerged Jacques O’Neill has dramatically quit the villa seemingly over a row with Adam.
In a preview for Tuesday’s episode, Jacques gets into a blazing row about his rival Adam as they both make a play for Paige Thorne’s affections.
Jacques and Paige’s romance had been on rocky ground after his flirtation in Casa Amor was exposed.
Previously, he had hinted he would leave the show if Paige was unable to forgive him.
