Former Love Island star Ciaran Davies has delivered a scathing critique of one hidden aspect of life in the famous villa as he prepares for a second shot at love on Love Island: All Stars.
The Unseen Struggle: Villa Catering Comes Under Fire
The 23-year-old, who first appeared on the ITV2 dating show in 2024, is set to return to the revamped South African villa this week. While excited to mingle with a cast including former winners Millie Court and Jess Harding, Davies confessed there is one element he is genuinely dreading.
In a candid interview ahead of the series launch, Davies pinpointed the food as the worst part of his previous experience. 'Last time, I didn't like the food - I'm a foodie, if you look on my Instagram, I'm always posting food,' he revealed. 'I've had some food from South Africa while I've been here, and it's amazing, so I'm hoping it's going to be the same standard.'
This behind-the-scenes detail is a stark contrast to the glamorous image presented on screen. While Islanders are occasionally shown preparing breakfast or snacks, the majority of their catered meals are kept off-camera. Previous contestants have disclosed that the production crew provides a range of options, including meat, fish, and vegan dishes, with basic breakfast items available in the villa kitchen.
More Than Just Nerves Over Nourishment
The catering isn't the only thing causing anxiety for the Welsh singleton. Davies also admitted he is 'dreading' the infamous talent show segment, where Islanders must perform for one another. 'If I get that far and I'm on the talent show and you see me be really awkward, you know - because I am dreading it,' he added.
Despite these concerns, Davies enters the villa with clear intentions. He stated he has high hopes of leaving 'with a girlfriend' but is also open to forming lasting friendships. 'Obviously I'm sort of tucked away in South Wales... I'm excited just to see which people have been brought in,' he explained. 'I do want a girlfriend, but if it doesn't work out, hopefully I leave with a few good friendships.'
A Star-Studded Villa Gets a Glamorous Makeover
The new series, hosted by Maya Jama and launching on Monday at 9pm on ITV2 and ITVX, features a line-up of familiar faces from across the show's 11-year history. Alongside winners Millie Court and Jess Harding, the cast includes 2023 finalist Whitney Adebayo, whose split from Lochan Nowacki was shrouded in controversy.
Producers have pulled out all the stops for the All Stars edition, giving the villa a complete luxury overhaul. Contestants will be treated to:
- A new mint green bedroom with plush orange and pink chill-out spaces.
- Gold-accented wardrobes filled with pre-loved clothing.
- A supersized, gold-themed hideaway with a lavish bed and private bar.
- A secret garden area for uncoupled Islanders to have private chats.
- Multiple swimming pools and decking areas with stunning mountain views.
The show promises to deliver high drama as older, and potentially wiser, contestants return for another chance at love, all while navigating the unseen challenges of villa life, from the catering to the cringe-worthy talent show.
