Former Love Island Contestant Opens Up About Show’s Impact on Her Love Life

Olivia Hawkins, a contestant from the 2023 season of winter Love Island UK, recently shared that dating has become increasingly challenging since gaining recognition from the popular reality TV program.

Despite her popularity during her time on the second winter series of Love Island, Olivia Hawkins was eliminated along with Maxwell Samuda two weeks before the finale due to a public vote.

Despite the initial belief that being on one of the biggest reality TV shows would make dating easier, she clarified that it has actually hindered her ability to find her perfect match.

During an interview with the Daily Star, the 28-year-old shared, “I am currently dating, but I am not in a rush to find a serious relationship. Love Island has made it more challenging, I would say. It’s much more difficult now.”

She continued, “It’s a lot harder when you don’t know people’s intentions. I believe people may assume we’re more intimidating now. The most common way people approach me is through Instagram, but even then, it’s usually just a like on a story or something.”

Love Island's Olivia — ITV / Instagram: loveisland

Olivia Hawkins appeared on Love Island in 2023

Shortly after departing the villa with Maxwell, the couple ended their relationship mere weeks after the show’s conclusion. Her former partner discussed their separation during an interview on the Murad Merali Podcast, stating, “Being in the villa or even just after, while still in South Africa together, creates a completely different atmosphere.”

“While being on vacation can be enjoyable, returning home brings a new set of distractions and responsibilities that divert your attention and focus.”

He added, “While some may anticipate bitterness from both myself and [Olivia], and for us to speak out against each other, I actually have a lot of respect for her.”

Despite her unsuccessful relationship with Maxwell, Olivia remains hopeful about finding love as she recently shared that she is open to returning to the villa for the All Stars season next year.