Winter Love Island host confirmed as Laura Whitmore

The news was confirmed by ITV today (20^thDecember) after previous host Caroline Flack chose to stand down from the series following her arrest.

Whitmore, 34, will also host Love Island: Aftersun, which will air on ITV2 live from London on Monday nights at 10pm.

She previously hosted Survival of the Fittest, which ironically was billed to be 'Winter's answer to Love Island' when it aired in 2018. She is currently dating Love Island's voiceover man, comedian Iain Stirling.

Speaking about her appointment, Whitmore said in a statement: “To say I’m excited to be heading to Cape Town to host Love Island, the biggest show on television, is an understatement.

“I want to thank ITV for trusting me at the helm of this huge show. I wish it was in better circumstances; Caroline is a brilliant host and also a friend. We’ve spoken a lot in the last few days since she stepped down. She has been very kind to me and strongly pushed me for this role. I’ve watched her host every series and know I have big boots to fill. I will try and do it justice.

“Above all, I am a massive fan of this show. I’ve never been to a Love Island villa, and I can’t wait to get in there to meet all the new Islanders looking for love. The Love Island team are the best in the business… including the voice and heart of the show, Iain. He thought he was getting a holiday away from me… not a chance!”

Head of Digital Channels and Acquisitions, Paul Mortimer, said: “I’m delighted that Laura is able to step in this winter on ITV2’s biggest show. She is the best person for the job and is a popular and experienced presenter of live television. Whilst Caroline is away, we know that Love Island will be in very safe hands.“

The latest series of Love Island is the first to be hosted in January, coming from a brand new location and villa in Cape Town.

It was confirmed by ITV earlier this week that the show will launch on Sunday 12^thJanuary 2020.

Love Island returns to ITV2 in January 2020