Laura Whitmore announces she is not hosting next series of Love Island

Laura Whitmore has announced she will not host the next series of ITV’s Love Island.

The 37-year-old has hosted three series of the reality TV show since the death of Caroline Flack in February 2020.

Announcing the news on Instagram, Whitmore said: “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.”

After the announcement, 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.”

The news comes as runner-up contestant Gemma Owen, the daughter of footballer Michael Owen, was named as the latest brand ambassador for online fashion retailer PrettyLittleThing in a six-figure deal.

Ekin-Su Culculoglu and Davide Sanclimenti were crowned winners of this year’s series of Love Island this month.

The Turkish actress from Essex and Italian business owner, both 27, won over fans with their fiery but passionate relationship that lasted most of the series.