Laura Whitmore spotted for the first time since quitting Love Island as she arrives at rehearsals for new play

LAURA Whitmore couldn’t stop smiling as she emerged today for the first time after announcing she’s quit hosting Love Island.

The Irish star, 37, was spotted heading to rehearsals of her new play following her shock statement, where she claimed there were "certain elements of the show I've found very difficult".

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Laura has fronted the last three series since taking over from Caroline Flack in 2020.

She said the issues included "flying back and forth to South Africa along with my new conflicting projects."

Laura recently announced she was about to star in the West End play 2:22: A Ghost Story.

And The Sun revealed last month that Laura, married to Love Island narrator Iain Stirling, would also be quitting BBC Radio 5 Live.

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Writing on Instagram, Laura said: "Some news! I won't be hosting the next series of Love island.

"There are certain elements of the show I've found very difficult that cannot be changed some due to the format, including the flying back and forth to South Africa along with my new conflicting projects.

"I wish it was still possible but know you'll be in safe hands. I was only planning to fill in for Caroline for a series and it turned into 3 series. I hope I did you proud Caroline".

Caroline, 40, took her own life in 2020.

In a statement, ITV said: "Laura has been a fantastic host across the last three series of the show.

"We are so grateful for everything she has brought to the programme but understand and respect her decision, and we look forward to working with her on upcoming ITV projects."

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Fellow Love Island stars rushed to wish her well in her next chapter, with 2019 runner up Maura Higgins writing: "You will be missed."

Demi Jones, who was an Islander in 2020, said: "You were incredible! We’ll miss you."

Fellow season 6 Islander Shaughna Phillips commented: "You absolutely did! Going to miss you!"

ITV are yet to reveal who will replace Laura on the show next year.

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