Love Island viewers were left gobsmacked when bombshell George Knight walked away from the show just days into the new series. The 28-year-old professional footballer had arrived ready to find romance in the Majorcan villa, but things didn't work out as planned. He initially entered the programme alongside Yasmin Hadlow and they were handed a major challenge.
How Long Was George Knight in the Love Island Villa?
The Winchester lad joined the show on day two, the morning after the original cast were introduced to audiences. That episode was broadcast on Tuesday but could have been filmed several days prior to transmission. On Thursday morning, he was summoned to meet producers at the front entrance for a quick discussion. They disclosed that George's parents had made contact and he would be receiving a call from home. His family told him there was a health issue with another relative, which led to his decision to return home.
Speaking to The Sun's Showbiz Flix Podcast, he revealed: "It is all very private. But it was a health concern with a member of the immediate family. They said they felt like they weren't doing their role as a parent if they didn't let me know. And with what was said, I just felt like it was the right thing to come home."
In total, his stay in the villa lasted a mere six days, a period he now reflects on as "the most surreal" time. Although George's scenes continued to be aired after his departure from the villa, ITV chose not to broadcast his exit. The reality star took a moment to express his gratitude to viewers following his exit, posting on Instagram: "Thank you to everyone who has reached out with kind messages and support! It genuinely means a lot."
Love Island continues on ITV2 and ITVX tonight at 9pm.
