ITV is facing staggering financial losses as the launch of Love Island All Stars has been postponed indefinitely due to dangerous wildfires sweeping through South Africa's Western Cape.
Production Halted Amid Safety Crisis
The broadcaster confirmed the delay after evacuating the luxury villa, Ludus Magnus, in Franschhoek, on safety grounds. The decision, announced on the show's official Instagram page, means the highly anticipated series will not premiere as planned. A spokesperson stated that health and safety are the greatest priority and filming will only resume once the area is deemed completely secure.
The Mounting Financial Toll
With production at a standstill, ITV is reportedly losing a jaw-dropping £15,000 for every hour of delay. The costs are multifaceted: the lavish villa alone costs £9,000 per night to rent, and it now sits empty. Meanwhile, the entire crew—including camera operators, caterers, and psychologists—continue to be paid their daily rates while accommodated in nearby hotels.
The islanders themselves, such as returning stars Millie Court, Shaq Muhammad, and Whitney Adebayo, are set to earn around £2,000 per week, while host Maya Jama commands a reported £800,000 fee for the series.
Logistical Nightmare for Producers
A source described the situation as a "nightmare," revealing the team was scrambling on what is known as the 'get in' day—a critical logistical period before filming begins. Road closures caused by the fires have prevented access to the villa, throwing meticulous plans into chaos. The delay also halves the time the edit team has to prepare the first episode for broadcast.
Emergency services in the Cape Winelands District are battling the out-of-control blazes, fuelled by strong winds and high temperatures. Authorities have even planned a military flight to assess the fire's full extent and forecast its direction.
What Happens Next?
For now, the cast, crew, and host Maya Jama remain in safe accommodation as ITV bosses wait for the all-clear. The broadcaster has stated that transmission of Love Island: All Stars is delayed until a date to be confirmed, with no indication of when the iconic reality show can safely return to screens.
