Sam Thompson Exits Love Island Aftersun Panel After Three Years
Sam Thompson, the former Made In Chelsea star and winner of I'm A Celebrity...Get Me Out of Here!, has confirmed he will not be returning to the Love Island: Aftersun panel this summer, marking the end of his three-year tenure on the show. The 33-year-old television personality has been a regular fixture on the ITV2 spin-off programme since 2023, but has decided to step down to concentrate on other commitments within the ITV network.
Awkward Radio Moment and Personal Life Developments
This announcement comes shortly after an uncomfortable incident on the Hits Radio Breakfast Show, where Thompson is currently covering for hosts Fleur East, Will Best, and James Barr. During a segment inviting listeners to 'Ask Me Anything', a fan called in and posed a pointed question live on-air, referencing the song 'Steal My Girl' by One Direction and alluding to Thompson's past relationship with former Love Island star Zara McDermott.
The query touched on a sensitive topic, as Thompson and McDermott ended their five-year relationship in December 2024 after living together in his Chelsea flat. Their romance faced challenges, including a brief split in 2019 when McDermott admitted to infidelity during The X Factor: Celebrity. Although they reconciled, rumours of further difficulties led to their final breakup over Christmas 2024, with McDermott later going public with boyband star Louis in March 2025.
Focus on Future ITV Projects and Career Moves
Despite the personal upheaval, Thompson has maintained a busy schedule. A spokeswoman for the presenter stated, 'Sam absolutely loved his time as part of the Love Island team and the show will always have a special place in his heart, but he felt 2026 was the year to concentrate on his many other ITV projects.' She added, 'Sam is a big part of the ITV family and is looking forward to his imminent I'm A Celeb South Africa Final presenting role.'
Thompson's departure from Love Island: Aftersun underscores a strategic shift in his career, as he leverages his popularity and experience to take on new presenting opportunities. His exit leaves a vacancy on the panel for the upcoming summer series, with ITV yet to announce a replacement.
