Love Island has become the UK's most complained-about programme of 2025, according to Ofcom. The reality dating show received thousands of complaints over the treatment of contestant Shakira Khan, whom viewers believed faced bullying from other female participants.
Episodes across three consecutive days in July topped Ofcom's complaints list, culminating in 3,547 complaints about the 24 July edition. More than 2,000 complaints were submitted for each of the two preceding days. The vast majority related to alleged bullying of Khan, who broke down in tears on several occasions after apparent cliques emerged in the villa.
Some viewers felt Khan was subjected to negativity, jibes and eye rolls from other women. Tensions peaked when she ended a relationship with one islander to pursue another. Producers also showed Khan and another contestant criticising two other women. Despite the complaints, Ofcom decided not to investigate, stating the negativity was not celebrated and viewers expect such scenes in reality shows.
Other complaints concerned a contestant who left the villa being allowed back in. ITV clarified that producers can reintroduce previously evicted islanders. The broadcaster also said participants receive training to avoid controlling or coercive behaviour.
In fourth place was a Vanessa Feltz show on Channel 5, where fashion designer Karen Millen described breastfeeding beyond six months as 'selfish'. Ofcom concluded the comments did not breach rules. Fifth was a GB News item where presenter Josh Howie linked the LGBTQ+ community to paedophiles; Ofcom found this broke broadcasting rules. GB News also apologised after a guest wrongly claimed the Duchess of Sussex's mother had been in prison.
