Love Island: All Stars has triggered a significant viewer backlash, with broadcasting regulator Ofcom receiving more than 500 complaints in recent days. The ITV2 dating show, which features former contestants returning to the villa for another shot at romance, has been on air for several weeks, but recent episodes have sparked controversy over alleged bullying behaviour.
Ofcom Data Reveals Complaint Surge
Official data released by Ofcom shows a substantial number of viewers have formally objected to content in the latest series. Following the episode that aired on Friday 23rd January, the regulator received 496 complaints. This was followed by an additional 92 complaints after the broadcast on 26th January, bringing the total to well over 500.
Specific Allegations of Bullying
An Ofcom spokesperson confirmed to media outlets that the majority of complaints about the 23rd January episode related to alleged bullying of contestant Whitney by fellow islanders Shaq and Jess. Regarding the 26th January broadcast, the spokesperson stated that most complaints centred on Scott van-der-Sluis's behaviour toward other contestants, including allegations he bullied Sean.
The tension reached a boiling point in the villa when Scott confronted Sean in a heated exchange. "The behaviour you have had towards Shaq is snakey," Scott raged. "I feel like you use the 'Sean let me feel sorry for you' card and get the grace that he doesn't get."
Sean, visibly upset and on the verge of tears, responded: "Look Scott, you've had your moment, you've smashed it mate." He accused Scott of having it in for him "since day one" and declared they were not friends. Fellow islander Tommy intervened, stating "That shows a man, not a snake," as Sean described Scott's behaviour as bullying.
Viewer Reaction and Ratings Concerns
Social media platforms erupted with commentary as the scenes aired, with many viewers predicting the Ofcom complaints would surge. One X user wrote: "OMG I just know Ofcom is going to be red hot tonight." Another remarked: "Ofcom blowing up rn," while a third commented: "There's a difference between getting someone to take accountability and bullying. And Scott is a bully!"
The controversy comes amid reports of potentially concerning viewing figures. Initial overnight ratings suggested just 490,000 viewers tuned in for a recent episode, which would represent one of the lowest ratings in the franchise's history. For context, previous series have attracted millions of viewers, with series five achieving a record 3.3 million and last year's edition drawing around one million.
ITV's Response to Ratings and Complaints
ITV has responded to the ratings discussion by noting that overnight figures do not include streaming data from ITVX or other platforms. A spokesperson stated: "The overnight figures aren't inclusive of engagement on that platform, or on YouTube, where it is also available to watch. To date we have had over 2 billion streams for the series on ITVX, so it's very much not representative of the bigger picture."
Regarding the Ofcom complaints, ITV has not issued a formal statement at this time. The broadcaster typically allows the regulatory process to unfold before commenting on specific viewer complaints to the regulator.
Love Island: All Stars continues to air weeknights at 9pm on ITV2 and is available for streaming on ITVX. The controversy highlights ongoing debates about appropriate behaviour in reality television formats and viewer expectations regarding contestant treatment.
