Gabriel Garland, a 24-year-old model who joined the current series of Love Island during the Casa Amor segment, has been removed from the villa after show bosses were alerted to his involvement in a past stabbing incident. The revelation came to light once filming had already commenced, prompting ITV to take action.
According to court documents obtained by The Sun, Garland was present at a party on New Year's Eve in 2019 in Casewick Road, London, where Vitor Mazzer, then 18, stabbed two victims. Mazzer was later found guilty of two counts of causing grievous bodily harm with intent and sentenced to three and a half years in jail. His appeal against the conviction was denied in April 2024.
Garland's Role in the Incident
The court filings indicate that the two victims had an altercation with Garland before Mazzer carried out the stabbings. Despite this, Garland was not charged with any offences. His mother, Joanne, provided a character statement for him in court.
An ITV spokesperson confirmed Garland's departure, stating: 'Gabriel has now left the Villa and will not be returning.' The broadcaster has declined to comment further, but it is understood that Garland will still appear in the next episode, and no replacement is planned.
Background Check Concerns
This incident marks the second time this season that a Love Island contestant has left prematurely. Earlier, George Knight exited the show citing 'personal reasons' related to a family member's health, but it later emerged that he was asked to leave for using a slur. Viewers have called on the show to 'fix' their background checks, expressing frustration over the repeated issues.
Love Island continues tonight at 9pm on ITV2 and ITVX.
