The truth behind Laura Whitmore’s shock Love Island exit revealed
LAURA Whitmore quit Love Island to become the next Stacey Dooley, with a factual series in the works.
The presenter, 37, had been quietly arranging new work projects after deciding months ago that this summer’s series of the ITV2 dating show would be her last.
Her next TV project will be a documentary series for ITV called Laura Whitmore Investigates.
The work will be a world away from Love Island, which she quit on Monday night after three series.
She was next due to present the programme’s Winter instalment in South Africa next January.
The mum of one wrote online: “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.”
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Laura has complained about the scrutiny that came with the high profile job.
During this summer’s series, viewers complained to Ofcom over her interviewing techniques on spin-off show Aftersun.
A TV source said: “Laura’s new documentary series will give her a chance to really flip her career 180 degrees.
“Instead of her being the centre of attention - scrutinised on everything from how she presents through to what she wears - Laura will be throwing a spotlight on other issues.
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“It will also provide a lot more flexibility around her family.
“Stacey Dooley and now Olivia Attwood have shown there is space for strong women in the documentary sphere and Laura wants in.”
Laura also begins a new theatre role in September as Jenny in 2:22 in London’s West End.
She revealed in her Love Island statement that she had only ever intended to cover the show for one series after Caroline Flack was forced to step down in 2020.
Laura added: “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 three series. I hope I did you proud Caroline.”
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A flurry of bets have been made on who will replace Laura in the plum ITV job.
Maya Jama, Emily Atack and Maura Higgins lead the field for female hosts, while Sam Thompson and Kem Cetinay are in the frame if ITV decide to go for a male.
