ITV names Laura Whitmore to replace Caroline Flack on ‘Love Island’

Laura Whitmore

Laura Whitmore is to replace Caroline Flack as the host on season six of the UK version of Love Island.

Flack stood down this week from hosting duties after being charged with assault by beating following an incident at her Islington home.

Whitmore previously replaced Flack as host of I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here‘s ITV2 spin-off in 2011, and has a weekly show on BBC Radio 5 Live.

The Dublin-born star made her breakthrough as a TV presenter with MTV Ireland in 2008. She appeared as a contestant on Strictly Come Dancing in 2016.

Love Island’s first winter series comes from a new location and villa in Cape Town. The show will launch on 12 January.

Whitmore will also host Love Island: Aftersun, which will air on ITV2 live from London on Monday nights at 22.00.

Whitmore said: “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.”

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.”