Advertisement

Laura Whitmore announced as Caroline Flack's 'Love Island' replacement

Laura Whitmore attends a private screening of "Fallen Dream" at The Mandrake Hotel on December 12, 2019 in London, England.  (Photo by David M. Benett/Dave Benett/Getty Images)
Laura Whitmore attends a private screening of "Fallen Dream" at The Mandrake Hotel on December 12, 2019 in London, England. (Photo by David M. Benett/Dave Benett/Getty Images)

Laura Whitmore has been announced as the new host of Love Island after Caroline Flack decided to step down from the upcoming winter instalment of the show.

Whitmore, who is in a relationship with the programme's narrator Iain Stirling, is set to present the main show which airs nightly at 9pm after it kicks off on 12 January, as well as its weekly Monday sister show Aftersun.

Of her new role, the 34-year-old 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.

Read more: Caroline Flack’s boyfriend defends ‘loyal and kind’ TV star following arrest

“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.

Laura Whitmore and Caroline Flack attend the Vanity Fair EE Rising Star Party ahead of the 2019 EE BAFTAs at The Baptist, L'Oscar Hotel on January 31, 2019 in London, England.  (Photo by David M. Benett/Getty Images for EE)
Laura Whitmore and Caroline Flack attend the Vanity Fair EE Rising Star Party ahead of the 2019 EE BAFTAs at The Baptist, L'Oscar Hotel on January 31, 2019 in London, England. (Photo by David M. Benett/Getty Images for EE)

“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!”

Meanwhile, 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.“

Laura Whitmore and Iain Stirling attend the 20th anniversary celebration of tailor and fashion designer Gresham Blake at the Hard Rock Hotel London on November 28, 2019 in London, England.  (Photo by David M. Benett/Dave Benett/Getty Images for Hard Rock Hotel London)
Laura Whitmore's boyfriend Iain Stirling narrates the programme. (Photo by David M. Benett/Dave Benett/Getty Images for Hard Rock Hotel London)

Flack announced on Tuesday that she would not be returning to host the show for its first winter edition after she was charged with assault last week.

In a statement, she shared: “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 6.

"I want to wish the incredible team working on the show a fantastic series in Cape Town."

However, ITV have said they will be keeping in contact with the 40-year-old about future series.