Savanna Darnell: 'Love Island ruined my life'

Updated on May 31, 2022 at 11:27 AM

The former contestant, who appeared in Casa Amor in 2018, says the show has left her emotionally scarred after being 'humiliated' on national television.

Savanna Darnell: 'Love Island ruined my life'

The now 26-year old has come clean about her experience on Love Island in a recent interview and she did not hold back one bit.

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'I fell into a deep black hole of depression'

The brunette beauty has admitted to believe that the show completely has ruined her life after feeling humiliated on national television for not having been given enough air time. Darnell explained that being one of the first to go and not be given a proper chance to show who she is was a very hard for her. She explained:

I was living with my brother in London at the time, and he didn’t want me to go on the show. He thought it was trashy and not something he wanted his little sister taking part in. We had a huge argument and still don’t really speak to this day. Out of the six girls, only two of us weren’t chosen. It was the most embarrassing moment in my whole entire life. I had to watch as they excitedly prepared to move across to the main villa – I just felt sick.

And added:

I can’t even remember the flight back to the UK. I’ve completely blocked it out of my memory. Recently, I finally started having therapy, but I just haven’t been able to discuss it all yet. I fell into a deep black hole of depression.

Pre, during and post-show mental health care protocol

Bosses of the show have recently confirmed that they will be taking better care of Love Island participants to help them navigate life after the show. As has been the case in the past, some former islanders have gone as far as taking their own lives as a result of facing the realities that come with fame. They confirmed that:

Extensive welfare measures remain in place to provide support to programme participants before, during and after filming.

Adding:

Ahead of this series, contributors on the show will be offered video training and guidance covering inclusive language around disability, sexuality, race and ethnicity, behaviours and microaggressions.