I t’s a summer of love, or rather, of Love Island USA . The sixth season of the hit reality dating series – which airs its finale on Sunday, July 21 – is all anyone can talk about, and rightfully so. For nearly 10 years, Love Island UK has reigned supreme among the franchise’s multiple spin-offs, which includes US, Australia, Love Island Games , and Love Island All Stars.
The steady rise in popularity of this season’s American iteration, which debuted on Peacock on June 11, came almost by word of mouth (and by viral TikTok fan edits). Not only was Vanderpump Rules star Ariana Madix introduced as its new host , ushering in a new demographic of fans with her, but the relationships among this season’s cast has viewers particularly hooked. A snake wrangler with considerable bad luck with women, a Kardashian-esque “it” girl from Calabasas, NFL star Odell Beckham Jr’s brother, and the season one winner of The Traitors UK make up just some of season six’s memorable stars.
While the premise of Love Island USA is the same as seasons past – to form lasting romantic connections and compete for a $100,000 cash prize – the dynamics between these contestants are anything but romantic. What’s made this season the number one reality series streaming in the US is that the show reflects exactly how exhausting dating has become. From situationships, to love bombing tendencies, to Leah Kateb’s proclivity for emotionally unavailable men, single people everywhere can su.
