Who will replace Caroline Flack on Love Island? Laura Whitmore is new host, ITV confirms
LAURA Whitmore has officially been named the new host of Love Island.
The news was confirmed by ITV following Caroline Flack's decision to quit the show after she was charged with assault.
When will Laura Whitmore takeover as Love Island host?
Laura will start presenting duties in January when Winter Love Island launches.
The new series, which will mark the sixth season of the show, will launch on ITV2 on January 12 and will be filmed in South Africa.
In addition to hosting the main show, Laura will also oversee Love Island: Aftersun, which will air on ITV2 live from London on Monday nights at 10pm.
Commenting on the news, Laura said: "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."
Head of Digital Channels and Acquisitions, Paul Mortimer, added: “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.“
How does Laura Whitmore know Love Island voiceover star Iain Stirling?
Laura and Iain are actually a real life couple.
The pair met in 2016 and romance developed last summer, despite comedian Iain’s commitments narrating the hit ITV2 series.
After months of staying coy about the romance, Iain opened up in March, saying: “I’ve got someone who’s like me, but much, much better.
And Laura’s got someone who’s like her, but much worse. I’ve done well out of it, but I’m dead happy because she’s lovely and stuff.”
Commenting on how Iain feels about her joining him on Love Island, Laura joked: "He thought he was getting a holiday away from me… not a chance!"
Why did Caroline Flack quit Love Island?
Caroline made the decision to step down just days after she was arrested following an altercation with her boyfriend Lewis Burton.
The tennis player was not seriously hurt but Caroline needed hospital treatment after accidentally cutting herself on broken glass.
During an exclusive interview with The Sun Caroline said: "Love Island has been my world for the last five years, it’s the best show on telly. In order to not detract attention from the upcoming series I feel the best thing I can do is to stand down for series six.
"I want to wish the incredible team working on the show a fantastic series in Cape Town."
Following her arrest, Caroline has been bailed and is due to appear at Highbury Corner magistrates’ court on December 23.
When does Winter Love Island start?
ITV has confirmed that Winter Love Island will start on January 8.
The new series of the ITV2 smash hit will broadcast from South Africa from the second week of January.
Staff will fly out to the country on New Year's Day to prepare the way for the next batch of islanders who hope to find love on the show.