Women's Aid are currently in talks with Love Island bosses after viewers expressed concern over the ‘misogynistic and controlling behaviour’ shown on screen.
The domestic abuse charity has stepped in to speak to ITV bosses after viewers were growing increasingly concerned over certain contestants' behaviour on the reality show. Viewers have been gripped by the explosive stint in Casa Amor, return of bombshell Islander Adam Collard and heated Mad Movies night.
However, the drama seems to be going too far for some viewers who are becoming concerned for the welfare of contestants. In recent episodes, Luca Bish has faced extreme backlash for his treatment of Gemma Owen after blowing up at her for 'flirting' with Billy Brown.
During the continuation of Movie Night, Luca was shown clips of Gemma and Billy chatting which left the 23-year-old fishmonger fuming. Luca's family have now issued an apology to fans on his behalf for his treatment of Michael Owen's daughter, insisting that he will be 'embarrassed' upon watching it back.
This isn't the only incident that has been slammed by viewers, as, Irish contestant Dami Hope was also recently criticised for his treatment of Summer Botwe, as he aggressively shouted at her and branded her “fake”. Viewers noticed the microbiologist shouted at Summer while completely ignoring his own behaviour that saw him stray and indulge in a three way kiss while he was still had feelings for Indiyah Polack.
Davide Sanclimenti’s explosive rows with Ekin-Su Cülcüloğlu have been another subject of concern, with the Italian heartthrob repeatedly branding his partner a “liar” despite being unfaithful himself and kissing Coco Lodge. Former contestant Jacques O’Neill was also criticised for his attitude and comments towards Paige Thorne before he made the decision to exit the villa after struggling to cope with the pressurised environment.
Now, due to all the complaints Women's Aid have confirmed they are speaking to ITV bosses regarding the issue. Teresa Parker, head of communications and media relations at Women’s Aid, told Metro.co.uk : "At Women’s Aid we are being tagged into a stream of Twitter posts, with viewers of Love Island highlighting the misogyny and controlling behaviour being shown on screen.
"This is clearly more than talking about any individual contestants, and a programme based around the formation of romantic relationships must have guidelines on what behaviour is acceptable and unacceptable in those relationships. We are talking to ITV, and they have shared with us information on their inclusion training, but what appears to be missing is specific information on abusive relationships and an understanding of controlling behaviour in relationships."
Parker said it is important that Love Island producers are able to recognise when to "intervene and challenge unacceptable behaviour".
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