The global phenomenon of Love Island didn't just create summer TV hits; it forged stars with ambitions that stretch far beyond the villa. Now, a trio of the show's most famous alumni are locked in a transatlantic race, each determined to translate their UK fame into lasting success in the United States.
The Frontrunners: Signings, Screen Time and Secret Projects
Ekin-Su Cülcüloğlu, the 31-year-old winner of the 2022 series, appears to be making the most aggressive moves. After winning the show with Davide Sanclimenti, she has strategically built her US profile. Her appearances on the second season of The Traitors US and Netflix's Inside USA were just the opening acts. According to industry outlet Deadline, Ekin-Su has now signed with two powerhouse American agencies: the talent giant WME (William Morris Endeavor) and the film production company Atlas Entertainment.
This double signing signals a serious pivot. WME, whose roster includes A-listers like Emma Stone, will represent her globally, while Atlas will focus on developing scripted and hosting opportunities. Ekin-Su has stated her desire to move away from reality TV and back to her acting roots, telling The Sun she has plans to spend a month in America and dreams of making it in Hollywood.
From Villa Host to Hollywood Hopeful
Maura Higgins, who finished fourth in the 2019 series, has been a familiar face on US screens through the Love Island franchise. She initially served as a social media ambassador for Love Island USA, before graduating to guest host on Love Island Games and then main host of the spin-off Aftersun. Although she stepped back from that hosting role in June 2024 due to scheduling conflicts, she was swiftly announced as the host for the Love Island Games version of Aftersun.
Her American ambitions are bolstered by key signings. She joined the US-focused PR agency Align and, significantly, the major talent agency Creative Artists Agency (CAA), home to stars like Lady Gaga. Maura will also appear as a contestant on the upcoming second series of The Traitors US, airing in January 2025. Furthermore, her acting debut in the Irish film The Spin has reportedly impressed US executives, with conversations already happening about her next steps.
Building a Stateside Brand Beyond Reality
Olivia Attwood, who came third in Love Island's 2017 series, is taking a slightly different path. Already a successful ITV presenter fronting shows like The Price Of Perfection and Bad Boyfriends, she is leveraging her existing international platform. Her ITV shows are now available on Disney+ in the US, expanding her audience.
Olivia was the first of the trio to sign with the PR agency Align, specialising in growing careers in America. She has frequently been spotted in the US for 'secret projects' and work commitments, including attending Heidi Klum's Halloween party in New York. Speaking to the Daily Mail in September 2024, the 34-year-old confirmed she has 'had offers' from the US and believes her time on Love Island gave her a solid stateside fanbase to build upon.
The race is firmly on. With Ekin-Su securing elite agency representation, Maura gaining traction in both hosting and acting, and Olivia cultivating her profile through broadcast and PR, each has a distinct strategy to win over America. The question remains: which Love Islander will ultimately secure the Hollywood breakthrough they're all chasing?
