ITV bosses may throw a major surprise with this year’s series of Love Island – by parachuting in TWO mystery contestants.
The Celeb Report can reveal those set to enter the show on Monday could later be joined by two new wannabes.
Read our Love Island 2021 live blog for the latest updates
A Love Island source said: “ITV have at least two other contestants on standby, ready to go.
“Due to Covid-19 producers lined up more people than they needed in case anyone was forced to drop out.
“But producers were so blown away by the standbys that they are now thinking about whether they could incorporate them as part of this series.”
Due to Covid-19 those taking part have been forced to live in bubbles in the run up to the series.
“No chances are being taken,” a show insider said.
“Those taking part will have been in their own bubbles for more than a week so they will be desperate to meet their island-mates.
Producers hope romance will quickly follow.
It comes after The Celeb Report revealed how ITV bosses put this year’s Love Island stars through the strictest psych tests ever – to prepare them for life on and off the show.
Insiders say wannabes only got the green light after passing several rounds of checks.
And hundreds were turned down after failing to get through the gruelling procedures.
It comes as ITV tries to insulate itself from calls that the show from some who fear the young contestants are put at risk by taking part.
Two stars have also killed themselves after appearing on the programme – with their relatives later blaming a lack of support from the show for contributing to their illness.
Yesterday a source said: “ITV puts the welfare of its Love Islandstars front and centre and this year’s checks were the most extensive ever carried out.
“Producers are mindful that this series is also set to be the most watched because more people are watching TV during lockdown than ever. That’s why the tests have been ramped up and a lot of help and support is being put in place.
Insiders told us that experts had the final say on who went into the villa – not show producers – and hundreds of wannabes were turned down after gruelling medical checks.
All contestants are believed to have had to fill in a questionnaire on mental health, then had an interview with an expert before a third meeting with a professional who made the decision on whether they are mentally well enough to cope with fame and all the highs and lows that come with it.
Last year, ITV boss Richard Cowles revealed details of the show’s duty of care following controversy surrounding the tragic deaths of former contestants Mike Thalassitis and Sophie Gradon who took their own lives.
“Also, as we are outlining today our welfare processes follow three key stages: pre-filming, filming and aftercare and we are increasing our post filming support to help Islanders following their time in villa.”
As well as three stages of pre-villa checks, islanders get help on dealing with social media and advice on adjusting to life after the show. They also get coaching on how to deal with social media and tips on dealing with their financial affairs.
