Love Island USA is seeing a huge shift as Sarah Hyland is leaving as host! Why is she going and who might be taking her place? Find out more here!
Beginning in the United Kingdom in 2005, Love Island has spread to numerous other countries. The concept is the same with a pack of contestants placed in an island villa and facing various competitions of dating, games, and challenges. Cameras follow them around with the soapy antics of folks swapping partners and vying for the $100,000 prize.
The U.S. version began on CBS in 2019 with a good first year. Season 2 was altered by the COVID-19 pandemic so it was filmed in Las Vegas with season 3 moving to Hawaii.
In 2022, CBS dropped the show but it was swiftly picked up by Peacock. Among the changes made was original hostess Arielle Vandenberg being replaced by former Modern Family star Sarah Hyland. She's there to introduce the challenges and adds a fun vibe to the party atmosphere of the show.
The show has continued its run with a sixth season being prepped, but now without Hyland. Why is there a hostess shift, and who’s coming next?
The reason Sarah Hyland is leaving Love Island USA
Deadline broke the news first, with Hyland confirming it on her Instagram page. It appears it’s a good old-fashioned scheduling conflict, as the actress has another project in the works that will clash with the filming for Season 6.
"Well, I just got a text. I’m disappointed the news had to break this way but it is in fact true that I will not be returning to the island this summer. I have committed to an exciting project that will be announced soon that conflicts directly with the shooting dates for Love Island USA. While I’m sad I can’t return, I hope to see lots of love this summer on Peacock this upcoming season."
While not confirmed yet, TMZ reported that Vanderpump Rules star Ariana Madix is being tapped to replace Hyland. The show was already been renewed for two more seasons by Peacock with production on season 6 expected to begin by the summer.
Hyland is mum on just what her new project is but it appears she’s left on good terms as it was just bad timing that prevented her from continuing as host. She seems as eager as anyone to see Love Island continue and be a top reality show hit for Peacock for a while to come.
Love Island USA seasons 5-6 are streaming on Peacock.