ITV are accepting applications for Love Island 2021 from both gay and straight singletons, despite show execs admitting it would be hard to make a mixed sexuality version of the show work.
Producers say they are open to any applicant who is looking for love so long as they are over 18.
In a bid to find a more diverse range of people than ever before, bosses teamed up with Tinder to place a series of ‘fast track’ applications within the app.
While it would have been possible to only get the ads to show on straight singleton’s profiles, the adverts have been regularly appearing on gay profiles.
(Image: ITV)
A source said: “ITV and Love Island teamed up with Tinder earlier this year to find a new batch of islanders.
“They have been placing the ads strategically inside the app so you have to swipe left or right.
“The ads have been showing up on both male and female gay accounts as well as on those of straight people.”
When asked if they are considering contestants from all sexual orientations, a rep for ITV said: “Our only stipulation for applicants on Love Island is that they are over 18, single and looking for love.”
(Image: Tinder)
Fans of the show had been left confused by the ads on their profiles.
One love-hungry user tweeted: “Lol just got excited as you can now apply to Love Island through Tinder and then I realised I’m gay. Sad times.”
Another asked: “Just had an advert for Love Island on Tinder – does this mean they’re finally having gay contestants?! I applied – should probably hit the gym tbh.”
A third moaned: “Hey Tinder I keep getting love Island ads for me to apply.
“I’m gay, I can’t go on this show, it’s for straight people. Can you not please.”
(Image: Triangle)
While previous series of Love Island have included bisexual stars, the show is yet to include gay couples.
When asked about the prospect being more inclusive and including contestants of all sexualities on Love Island, executive producer Richard Cowles said he would be open to it but it would bring about ‘logistical difficulties’.
Cowles said: “You are trying to create couples.
“It is not impossible and it is not something that we shy away from… but there is a logistical element which makes it difficult.”
(Image: Instagram)
Last month ITV confirmed that the show will return to Majorca in June.
A source told The Sun that measures are in place to make sure the show can go ahead despite the ever changing pandemic.
An insider said: “All precautions have been taken to make sure it goes smoothly.
“Besides the extra cast, they’ve incorporated Covid safety measures and increased checks on contestants’ mental health.
“Everyone is very excited. Restrictions are easing, the Euros football is on and Love Island is back in Majorca. What more could you want?”
Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
