The current series of Love Island has become the second most complained about in the show's history, with Ofcom receiving over 9,000 complaints regarding alleged bullying. Viewers accused contestants of targeting Shakira, leading to 9,339 formal complaints across four episodes in July. The majority related to 'alleged bullying behaviour towards Shakira', with 2,272 complaints on July 22, 1,716 on July 23, and 958 on July 25.
Shakira, 22, was seen struggling with her feelings after ending things with partner Conor, later breaking down in tears over unresolved feelings for Harry. Additional complaints were made on June 20 over 'alleged bullying involving Toni and Shakira towards Emily', with viewers accusing the pair of 'ganging up' on Emily, 24. Toni was heard calling Emily 'f**king nosey' in uncomfortable scenes.
The series also faced backlash over steamy bedroom scenes between Megan and Dejon, which viewers branded 'disgusting' and 'like soft porn'. One fan wrote on X: 'Every time Love Island shows Meg & Dejon getting busy under the sheets, an angel loses its wings.' Another fumed: 'OMG!! Disgusting! That was literally like soft porn. Why do we need to see this?!'
Ofcom received over 1,000 complaints about 'misogynistic' behaviour in July, with more than half relating to an episode on July 18 featuring Harrison Solomon, 22, and Lauren Wood, 26. Harrison had slept with Lauren twice in Casa Amor while still coupled with Toni, without informing either woman. Women’s Aid released a statement criticising the show for 'reinforcing culture trivialising violence against women and girls'.
The most complained about series remains the 2021 edition, which drew outrage over a misleading Casa Amor postcard that suggested Faye Winter’s partner Teddy Soares had been unfaithful. Love Island has since expanded its duty of care protocols, including training for contestants.
