Reality TV fans are in for a treat as Love Island All Stars is set to kick off with a bang, and a familiar face from the 2022 series is leading the charge. Summer Botwe, who first entered the villa as a Casa Amor bombshell, is reportedly packing her bags and heading to South Africa to join the highly anticipated new series.
From Casa Amor to All Stars: Summer's Return
Sources close to the production have revealed that Summer, who became a central figure in a dramatic love triangle with Dami Hope and Indiyah Polack during her original stint, has signed up for the show. An insider told The Sun: "Summer’s packing her bags right now. She can’t wait to be on the show." This follows earlier reports that she was in "early talks" for a return, driven by her desire to find love.
Her initial appearance in series 8 was memorable, as she turned heads in Casa Amor before being chosen by Dami. However, he later recoupled with Indiyah, leaving Summer single. Despite this, her confident personality made her a standout character, and producers are evidently keen to bring that energy back to the screen.
Star-Studded Line-Up and Secret Filming Begins
Summer is not the only Islander rumoured to be making a comeback. The potential cast list reads like a who's who of past series favourites. Names in the mix include former winner Millie Court (following her split from Liam Reardon), Belle Hassan, and fan favourites like Jess Harding and Lana Jenkins.
Host Maya Jama has already begun filming segments, heightening excitement for the launch. In a pre-recorded clip, she teased: "The Islanders are all hidden in secret rooms. I’ve not seen any of them yet... I can’t tease anything apart from the fact that you’re gonna love it, and there’ll be some familiar faces… obviously."
Unfinished Business in the Villa
ITV has masterfully built anticipation with a cryptic ten-second teaser. The clip, featuring Polaroid pictures connected by string, posed the question: "Who's got unfinished business?" This suggests the series will be packed with drama as former flames and rivals reunite under the South African sun.
The success of the first All Stars series, which saw winners Molly Smith and Tom Clare get engaged, sets a high bar. However, not all romances survived the outside world, as seen with Gabby Allen and Casey O'Gorman's split. The return of narrator Ian Sterling promises the same iconic commentary fans adore.
Love Island: All Stars begins on January 12 at 9pm on ITV2 and ITVX. With Summer Botwe and a host of other big names reportedly on their way, viewers can expect fireworks, romance, and plenty of drama from the very first episode.
