Love Island's Shaq Muhammad has dramatically changed his story about the breakdown of his relationship with fellow Islander Tanya Manhenga, confessing the split was triggered by him receiving a lap dance from another woman. The 27-year-old made his return to the villa on Thursday night for the delayed launch of the Love Island: All Stars series, where he promptly set the record straight.
The Real Reason Behind the Breakup
Just hours after entering the iconic villa, Shaq addressed the elephant in the room. He revealed that his and Tanya's unceremonious breakup, which followed their fourth-place finish on the 2023 winter series, was a direct result of the lap dance incident. This confession marked a significant shift from his initial explanation, where he had claimed the dispute merely stemmed from him 'calling someone beautiful'.
Fans watching at home were quick to pounce on the inconsistency in Shaq's narrative. One viewer commented on social media: 'See how it went from “I called a girl beautiful” to “I got a lap dance” Shaq o Shaq. Justice for Tanya.' Another added: 'I knew there was more to the Shaq and Tanya breakup than him calling a girl beautiful, he’s such a liar.' Support for Tanya was clear, with one fan stating: 'Tanya did so good by dumping Shaq can’t lie cause he is a clown.'
All Stars Drama and Fan Reactions
As the episode unfolded, Shaq coupled up with fellow All Star Leanne Amaning, 28. However, viewers were quick to note a sparking chemistry between Shaq and another islander, Belle Hassan, 27. The launch episode also featured a fiery conclusion with the entrance of surprise bombshell Scott van-der-Sluis, making his fourth appearance on the show.
Scott was tasked with naming the couple he believed was 'no good', selecting Belle and Sean Stone, 26. He brutally added that Sean 'isn't even an All Star' and declared, 'Watching you on your season you were one of the worst Islanders ever.' This attack left Sean in shock, revealing the pair had never spoken before. Host Maya Jama then delivered another blow, informing Sean that as the male in the 'no good' couple, he would be immediately leaving the villa.
Other notable islanders in the All Stars lineup include former winners Millie Court, 29, and Jess Harding, 25, alongside Whitney Adebayo, 28, Ciaran Davies, 22, Helena Ford, 29, Tommy Bradley, 22, Jack Keating, 26, and Charlie Frederick, 30.
Islander Motivations for Returning
The returning stars have various reasons for stepping back into the spotlight. Shaq stated his aim was to 'find a wife and give my mum some grandchildren' after his previous romance didn't last. Belle Hassan expressed she is 'ready to find me a husband', while Millie Court simply felt 'really grateful' for her first experience and wanted another. Jess Harding, despite winning her series, felt she had a 'rocky ride' and has matured since.
The dramatic revelations and high-stakes recoupling have set the stage for a explosive series, with Shaq's confession ensuring his past relationship remains a central talking point.
