In a dramatic twist for the Love Island: All Stars series, bombshell contestant Tanya Manhenga has allegedly been 'dropped' by ITV bosses following the departure of her ex-partner, Shaq Muhammad, from the villa. The development comes after intense speculation about her potential entry, which now appears to have been scrapped.
Speculation and Claims from Former Islanders
Last week, former Love Island stars Toby Aromolaran and Tyrique Hyde, both aged 26, stirred excitement during a live Twitch stream. They claimed that a new bombshell was poised to enter the villa specifically for Shaq, with Toby revealing that 'a little birdie' had informed them Tanya, also 26, was already in South Africa where the show is filmed. Toby appeared on the ITV2 dating show in 2021, while Tyrique featured in 2023, adding credibility to their insider insights as they discussed their friend Shaq, aged 27.
Public Vote Decides Fate
However, plans seem to have changed abruptly. Shaq received the lowest number of public votes in a recent episode, leading to his dumping from the island. According to discussions on Reddit, this outcome has directly impacted Tanya's participation. Former Love Island contestant Mitch Taylor has alleged that while another potential bombshell, Harrison Solomon, remains in holding, Tanya has reportedly been sent home.
A Reddit user commented on the situation, noting: 'So they were keeping her for Shaq but wanted to leave the vote up to the public instead of letting islanders choose. Interesting!' Another user expressed frustration with the producers' strategy, writing: 'So they were sending her in for Shaq. When the hell will it finally get through to them that “surprise, it’s your ex!!” doesn’t work for anyone (Islanders or audience).'
Background on Tanya and Shaq's Relationship
Tanya and Shaq split in August 2024 after nearly a year and a half together. The former couple first sparked split rumours in July of that year when they unfollowed each other on social media and deleted all their joint photos. Shaq briefly silenced these rumours in August 2024 by sharing a loved-up photo of himself and Tanya at Claudia Fogarty's birthday party.
However, just days later, both took to their Instagram Stories to post identical statements confirming their breakup. Tanya wrote: 'Hi guys, Just want to say unfortunately me and Shaq are no longer together and have parted ways. We wish each other the best and can't thank you enough for loving us together until now! Thank you.'
Their Love Island Journey
Tanya and Shaq originally met on the last-ever winter series of Love Island in 2023, where they finished in fourth place. This was a notable year as it marked the first time two series of Love Island aired annually. Their split in 2024 came after fans had been convinced they were engaged earlier that year, during a lavish holiday where Shaq celebrated Tanya's birthday with an extravagant candlelit beach dinner at sunset.
Fans speculated the display was for an engagement, but Shaq captioned the post: 'This is just her birthday imagine when I propose. Thank you for helping me in making my baby's birthday one to remember.' The Daily Mail has contacted ITV for comment on the current reports regarding Tanya's status in the All Stars series, but no official statement has been released at this time.
