Former Love Island star Belle Hassan has given a frank interview about the prospect of seeing her ex-boyfriend, Anton Danyluk, as she prepares to return to the iconic villa for the Love Island: All Stars series.
"He's an ex for a reason": Belle's candid take on Anton
The 27-year-old make-up artist, who first found fame on the show's 2019 series, confirmed she wouldn't mind encountering Anton again, despite their split months after leaving the villa in 2024. Speaking to the Daily Mail and other press ahead of the launch, Hassan stated: "I wouldn't mind seeing Anton again. He's alright."
She elaborated, revealing they have never had a deep conversation about their past relationship. "It'd be nice to sort of have him where he can't escape from me, to have a chat with him about things," she said, while clarifying they are not on bad terms. However, she was quick to add, "I don't think I'd go backwards, he's an ex for a reason."
Anton's swift and promotional reaction
Belle's comments come just days after Anton Danyluk, 31, shared a lengthy social media post reacting to the news of her return. While wishing her "nothing but the best," he used the announcement to promote his new free fitness coaching platform, stating that her participation "changes absolutely nothing" for him and that returning to TV would be a "massive step backwards."
His post, which began with the caption "My ex is back, so what does that mean for me?" sparked criticism from some followers who felt he made her moment "all about him" and was using it for "personal gain."
Other villa hopes and family support
Belle also revealed she is hoping to see fellow Islander Joe Garratt in the villa, describing him as her "bestest friend" and a "comfort blanket," though she insisted it was not for romantic reasons.
She also touched on the support from her famous father, actor Tamer Hassan. "He's so supportive," she said, quoting him as saying, "Go have fun, not too much fun, but fun." She joked that her dad is nervous about "single Belle," whom she described as a "nightmare" because she "fancies everyone."
Love Island: All Stars begins on Monday 12 January at 9pm on ITV2 and ITVX.