Love Island Faces Bullying Complaints

Love Island has become the most complained-about television program of the year, with thousands of viewers lodging formal protests with the broadcasting regulator, Ofcom. The majority of these complaints centered on the alleged bullying of contestant Shakira Khan, who was seen crying on multiple occasions due to perceived negativity from other female islanders. Episodes aired in July saw a surge in complaints, with the July 24th edition alone receiving 3,547 protests. These concerns highlighted apparent cliques within the villa and Khan's isolation, exacerbated by relationship drama and producers highlighting critiques. Viewers also raised worries about Khan's mental well-being. Despite the substantial volume of complaints, Ofcom concluded that an investigation was not warranted. The regulator stated that the negative behavior was not celebrated and that viewers of reality shows generally anticipate such scenes. Other complaints addressed the show's practice of allowing previously evicted contestants to return, a decision ITV clarified is permitted.