Former Love Island champion Jack Fincham has publicly announced his decision to return to rehabilitation for a two-month period, following a recent relapse. The reality television personality, who triumphed on the ITV2 dating show alongside Dani Dyer in 2018, firmly stated that his struggles with addiction are not a consequence of his sudden fame.
Acknowledging Past Mistakes
Speaking candidly on ITV's Good Morning Britain, the 34-year-old admitted that his previous attempt at rehabilitation was unsuccessful because he failed to properly confront his issues. "I'll be honest, I didn't really think I had a problem. I didn't feel I had an issue," Fincham confessed. "So, I only went for two weeks and I was adamant I'm going home, I don't need this, I'm fine. When, actually, this has been a part of my personality ever since my adult life, really."
Rejecting the Fame Narrative
When directly questioned about whether his rapid ascent to celebrity status through Love Island contributed to his addiction problems, Fincham was unequivocal in his response. "No, it just obviously gave me more means to be able to do more of whatever it was I was doing," he explained. He did, however, acknowledge the significant personal cost of his behaviour, adding with regret, "It's messed up thousands of opportunities."
Despite facing criticism from online detractors, Fincham expressed a determination to use his public platform for positive influence. "But, unfortunately for them, I have got a platform, and if I can help one person, then I've done my job," he stated. For this rehabilitation attempt, he plans to attend a facility located "miles, miles, miles up north, 600 acres of land."
Legal Troubles and Financial Penalties
This personal announcement comes after a challenging period of legal difficulties for Fincham. Last year, he successfully appealed against a six-week prison sentence originally imposed for dangerous dog offences, ultimately walking free from court.
Prosecutor Erin Peck detailed that Fincham's dog had bitten a runner in Swanley, Kent, in September 2022, causing an arm injury. The runner accepted an apology, and Fincham was initially set to receive a caution and complete a responsible dog ownership course, with conditions including that his dog be muzzled.
However, a second incident occurred in Grays, Essex, in June of last year, where his dog was reported to be out of control. A woman in her forties reported that the dog grabbed her leg, though no injury was sustained. Following this, Fincham was formally charged.
Substantial Financial Order
The magistrate ordered Fincham to pay a total of £3,680, which included a £2,000 contribution towards kennelling costs, a fine of £961, and £200 in compensation to the victim, Mr. Sudell. His defence barrister, Richard Cooper, informed the court that the defendant "has no savings," leading the magistrate to allow payment in instalments, beginning at £400 per month.
This is not Fincham's first encounter with the judicial system. He had previously received an extended suspended sentence for driving offences, which included a conviction for drug-driving.
Life After the Villa
Fincham's romantic relationship with Dani Dyer, which began during their time in the Love Island villa, ended in 2019. Dyer has since married West Ham United footballer Jarrod Bowen. Fincham's current focus remains squarely on his health and recovery as he prepares for this intensive two-month rehabilitation programme, aiming to address the addiction issues he says have been a long-standing part of his adult life.
