A release date for the winter version of popular ITV2 reality show Love Island has reportedly been revealed.
The new series, plans for which were announced earlier this year, is apparently expected to hit screens in the second week of January.
According to a source quoted by MailOnline, bosses are “still deciding” but January 8 is believed to be the date they will choose, as it’s one week after the crew lands in South Africa.
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The insider told the publication: “The new Winter Love Island will launch the second week of January.
“Bosses are still deciding on the final date but it is thought to be January 8 – a week after staff arrive in South Africa.
“The new cast of singletons fly out just days before the launch but bosses work with test Islanders to uncover the best spots in the villa to create drama.”
The new Winter Love Island will launch the second week of January.
Ent Daily has contacted reps for Love Island for comment.
The winter version will be shorter than the summer one fans are used to, running for just six weeks instead of eight.
But presenter and Love Island voiceover star Iain Stirling thinks it will be even bigger than its summer counterpart.
Speaking on Lorraine in August, the Scottish comedian told stand-in host Christine Lampard: “It’s gonna be exciting, right?”
He explained exactly why he’s more excited about the colder version, saying: “Because I always find with the summer Love Island, obviously you want to watch it in the summer but you’ve got, like, festivals to go to, and holidays and stuff.
“In January you’re just eating beans and you’re skint, so like… you know what I mean? You’re paying off your Santa Claus debt, and now you can stare at beautiful people in bikinis, in the sunshine in Cape Town, which is in South Africa.”
Last month, rumours surfaced that the first contestant for Winter Love Island will be fashion model Ellis Iyayi.
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According to The Sun, Ellis from Leicestershire – who has modelled for brands including ASOS, Nike, JD Sports and GymShark – is “over the moon” about being lined up for the new series.
A source told publication: “Ellis is over the moon about it. He’s had to be sworn to secrecy about it but he’s been in to meet producers a few times and they love him. He can’t wait to get in the villa.
“Ellis is exactly what the show is looking for and he ticks all the boxes – he will make great television.”
Potential Winter Love Island contestants have until November 30 to apply.
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