Season six of Peacock's Love Island USA could be one of the most dramatic yet—and it's only 15 episodes in.
 |
| Ariana Madix on 'Love Island USA.' COURTESY OF PEACOCK |
The long-running dating competition series is attracting new viewers this year and features a new host, Vanderpump Rules breakout star Ariana Madix.
Madix's hosting debut on the popular dating show coincides with a fluid status on her other reality show, the hit Bravo series that has chronicled her and her Hollywood friends for over a decade. Due to the "Scandoval" scandal involving her and ex Tom Sandoval over the past two seasons, Vanderpump Rules is on hiatus. Madix and the ensemble cast are taking the summer off to regroup. Ultimately, it will be up to Madix to decide if she wants to return.
During the hiatus, the co-owner of a sandwich shop (recently opened Something About Her) is now bringing her distinctive style and expressive reactions to a new environment: the Love Island villa.
"I knew from the start that I just wanted to amplify myself, times ten, and bring everything that defines me to this role," Madix tells The Hollywood Reporter about hosting the American version of the popular British dating series.
Season six, which premiered on June 11 and runs for six weeks, has already witnessed its share of heartbreak and tears—particularly in Leah Kateb, Rob Rausch, and Andrea Carmona's love triangle—but there's likely more drama ahead. With bombshells, challenges, and surprises still to come, including the iconic Casa Amor.
"If I'm not watching or in the villa, you'll find me on Instagram or TikTok, sharing my thoughts with rapid-fire comments because I always have so much on my mind," adds the host, a longtime fan of the Love Island franchise.
Below, Madix reflects on the recent intense double elimination involving Carmona and Hakeem White, discusses handling tense moments in the villa, shares the advice she wishes she could give the Islanders, and hints at what's in store for the remainder of the season.
You transitioned from being a "VIP guest" in season five and Love Island Games to hosting season six. How did you react when you got that opportunity?
It was incredible! I was actually backstage at [Broadway show] Chicago, where I play Roxie Hart, and I had to slip away into the stage manager's office to take the call. Hearing the news was incredibly exciting. I was backstage, living out my lifelong dream of being on Broadway. And then to receive that call and step into another dream role—it was amazing, a pinch-me moment.
Did you feel any pressure taking over from previous host Sarah Hyland, and did you receive any advice?
I didn't receive any specific advice. It's really cool and kind of crazy because she's doing [Little Shop of Horrors on Broadway], so we almost did a swapsies! (Laughs.) I'm actually a bit bummed because I'd love to see her in Little Shop. As a longtime fan of Love Island across the board, watching Sarah, along with Arielle Vandenberg, Sophie Monk, Caroline Flack—the best to ever do it—Maya Jama, who's like the hottest person alive, I know that each host brings their own flavor to the job and the show.
So, I knew from the start that I just wanted to be myself. That takes away any pressure to emulate anyone else and creates something unique because it's authentically me. But I'm definitely excited because this is my favorite show.
You've had some memorable reactions to the drama so far. What goes through your mind when you witness these intense moments live in the villa?
A lot crosses my mind. Sometimes I'm tempted to jump in, but as the host, I have to remember I'm not an Islander—I can't join in or get involved. However, there are moments when I wish I could speak directly to them. It's fascinating. As a viewer and fan, I thrive on these moments. Yet, on a personal level, getting to know these Islanders, I feel a range of emotions—sadness, anger, happiness—depending on what unfolds. It's a complex mix of feelings, navigating between being a fan of the show and empathizing with their real-life experiences.
How do you handle delivering bad news? Do you get nervous in those moments?
I do feel bad when I know I have to bring bad news or send someone home that night. It's tough. Sometimes when I walk in, someone might be excited to see me, saying, "Oh my God, hi!" But then they can see from my face that it's not going to be a fun night. I feel bad that I can't just chat with them and instead have to deliver bad news. I hate having to do that, but it's also part of why I love watching the show.
Do you have more interactions with the Islanders off-camera than what viewers see?
That's pretty much the extent of my time with them. Filming goes on longer than what can be shown on TV, mostly due to time constraints. So, there are moments when conversations do go a bit longer. For instance, during the chaos of the recent double elimination [involving Andrea Carmona and Hakeem White], I had a slightly extended talk with them. On the first night, I had a much longer conversation with the girls than what was broadcast. And when the guys joined, our conversations were also longer than what makes it on air. But generally, what you see is about how much I get to interact with them, unless it's just quick exchanges like saying hi or complimenting their outfits.
And sometimes I wonder if I'm effectively communicating through my eyes. I'm trying to convey support and encouragement, but I'm not sure if it always comes across. (Laughs.) They might be thinking, "Why is she staring at me?"
Regarding the recent double elimination with Andrea Carmona and Hakeem White, which could be one of the most dramatic in Love Island USA history—do you believe the Islanders made the right decisions?
Yeah, I think regardless of whom the girls chose—and I do feel bad because we're not discussing whom the boys chose—Hakeem himself mentioned at one point that it made the most sense for him to be chosen, and I felt bad for him. He was right there while everyone was upset about Andrea leaving.
But looking at the three girls the women had to choose from: JaNa [Craig], who's an original Islander and has consistently put herself out there despite challenges; Nicole [Jacky], who was coupled with Kendall [Washington] and seemed to have a strong connection but is now exploring things with Miguel [Harichi]; and Andrea, who had only been there a few days but was very committed to Rob.
I think her strong attachment to Rob may have hindered her from forming strong connections with the other women.
While Love Island focuses on romantic connections rather than friendships, it's crucial in every season, especially during eliminations like these, to consider both. It's important to build bonds with fellow Islanders beyond just your couple, as these connections can impact the dynamics greatly. When the girls weighed their options, they chose based on what made sense to them in the moment.
Aaron's reaction, particularly, made for compelling television, though it was quite intense. I'm glad Liv stood her ground—I find her to be an incredible cast member, enjoying watching her grow and interact with everyone. She doesn't back down, which is admirable. Aaron's upset stemmed from thinking Rob would leave.
 |
| Love Island USA castmembers: Cassidy Laudano, Miguel Harichi, Serena Page, Nigel Okafor, Kenny Rodriguez, JaNa Craig. KIM NUNNELEY/PEACOCK |
I can't recall if it was Liv or JaNa who said this, but if you're closed off to new Islanders, every bombshell that arrives will likely be sent home after a few days because no one gets to know them. While I understand they're a strong couple, anyone can leave, including Rob. I had a feeling he wouldn't.
Do you have a favorite couple you're rooting for?
I genuinely love all of them, and I want each of them to find their perfect match and have a relationship beyond the villa. They all have qualities I admire for different reasons. It's hard to pick a favorite, but Serena and Kordell have the most adorable banter. I love their playful interactions, and I hope it blossoms into something more romantic. But if not, that's okay too. Kaylor and Aaron are also very sweet together; their handshake is adorable.
Right now, they seem like the strongest couple in the villa, but Casa Amor could change everything. I really want JaNa to find her match, and I'm rooting hard for Kendall to find someone too. Honestly, I wish the best for everyone—it would be perfect if they all found their perfect match.
Having experienced your own share of highs and lows in past relationships, what advice would you offer to the Islanders?
I would tell them that sometimes someone might seem perfect on paper, your type on paper, as they say. But when a new person arrives, it can make you wonder if the grass is greener elsewhere. I understand that on Love Island, time is limited, and decisions need to be made quickly. But I think if they talked more with their friends and tried to see the good in the person they're already with, it might help.
Chemistry isn't always apparent until you spend time together in person, so it's tricky. For example, I really liked Nicole and Kendall together. When Miguel came in, I felt sad that Nicole started getting to know him. I wish she'd give her connection with Kendall a second chance. But I get it—it's tough. They're not sure of the time, the day, or what's happening. I can only imagine the whirlwind of emotions they're experiencing constantly.
I'm glad to see the girls supporting each other; it's been wonderful to watch this season and crucial for them to navigate this wild experience together.
Can you hint at any upcoming games or challenges planned for the Islanders in the next episodes?
Honestly, I'm not sure myself. I don't have any details. I do know Casa Amor is coming up soon, as we're nearing the midway point of the season. There are some exciting things in store, but I can't reveal any specifics just yet.
Do you anticipate hosting more seasons of Love Island USA, and have there been discussions about your return for season seven?
I don’t have any details yet, but I would love to host this show indefinitely—until I can no longer or until it stops airing altogether or something! (Laughs.)
Love Island USA season six is currently available for streaming on Peacock.
0 Comments