A domestic abuse charity have praised Love Island viewers for “calling out unhealthy behaviour” on the show after almost 800 people complained to Ofcom.
Adina Claire, co-chief executive of Women’s Aid, believes it is a “positive development” that people are highlighting parts of the ITV2 dating show to the UK’s communications regulator after 302 people objected to Joe Garratt’s treatment of partner Lucie Donlan.
In a statement on the Women’s Aid website, Adina said: “Controlling behaviour is never acceptable, and with Love Island viewers complaining to Ofcom in record numbers about Joe’s possessive behaviour towards Lucie, more people are becoming aware of this and want to challenge it.
Read More: Love Island’s Joe accused of ‘faking’ romance with Lucie to stay in the villa
“Abusive relationships often start off with subtle signs of control, so it’s important that it is recognised at an early stage.
“Love Island viewers are now very vocal in calling out unhealthy behaviour between couples on the show, and this is a positive development.”
Her comments come after Lucie broke down in tears after Joe suggested she spend more time with the girls.
Speaking about her friendship with Tommy Fury, Joe said to her: “I’m not happy with it. It’s strange. I think it’s time for you to get close with the girls.”
Read More: ITV bosses ‘planning to launch a winter version of Love Island’
Ofcom also received 486 complaints over Maura Higgins’ attempts to win Tommy’s affections, which included her trying to kiss him on Friday night’s (14.06.19) episode.
A spokesperson said: “We will assess these complaints against our broadcasting rules, but are yet to decide whether or not to investigate.”
But she failed to win over the 20-year-old boxer, with Tommy recoupling with Molly-Mae Hague instead.
Read More: Love Island’s Sherif Lanre claims show ‘ignored racist language from another contestant’
It comes after Islander Sherif Lanre was booted off the show earlier this month after he accidentally kicked Molly-Mae in the crotch and described the action as a “[bleep] punt”.
He has since said: “I have never used the word before and I realise how insulting it is to women.
“As someone raised by a strong and loving mother, I want to say that I would never intentionally offend women. I was completely wrong and I apologise.”
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