Ofcom rejects 14,000 complaints about ITV reality show

The newest sequence of Love Island is not going to be investigated by media watchdog Ofcom regardless of greater than 14,000 complaints about points together with bullying and issues for contestants’ psychological well being.The 14,154 complaints is the very best quantity for 4 years, with many about alleged bullying, abusive behaviour and misogyny – notably in relation to a divide between a few of the women within the ITV villa.Essentially the most controversial episode was on 24 July, after which 3,547 complaints have been lodged about alleged bullying in opposition to Shakira Khan.Ofcom mentioned it had determined to not open a proper investigation as a result of the destructive behaviour “was not proven in a optimistic gentle”, and was in keeping with what viewers have come to anticipate.”We rigorously assessed the complaints we acquired about this sequence of Love Island,” a spokesperson mentioned.”We recognise that emotionally charged or confrontational scenes can upset some viewers.”However, in our view, destructive behaviour within the villa was not proven in a optimistic gentle, and contestants have been seen supporting or apologising to one another.”We additionally took under consideration that the format of this actuality present is well-established, and viewers would anticipate to see highs and lows as relationships and friendships are examined.”The overall variety of complaints is greater than the three,500 in 2024, and is the very best for a summer season sequence since 2021, when 36,000 complaints have been submitted. Different points to draw complaints this 12 months included Dejon Noel-Williams’ behaviour in direction of Megan Moore, whereas some viewers accused producers of manipulating islanders’ feelings and utilizing biased enhancing, together with allegations of racism within the portrayal of Shakira.In response, ITV mentioned: “We might take any suggestion that any editorial selections are made primarily based on race very severely certainly and would refute this within the strongest doable phrases.”Some viewers complained a few determination to convey again Megan Forte Clarke after she was dumped from the villa. ITV’s phrases say producers have the discretion to “reintroduce an Islander seen in earlier levels of the competitors who was beforehand evicted”.ITV additionally says members get coaching upfront about “mutually respectful behaviour in relationships” and “behaviour patterns related to controlling and coercive behaviour”.They usually get “complete psychological assist” and an aftercare package deal together with “assist to all Islanders following their participation on the present”.Toni Laites and Cach Mercer have been topped the winners of this 12 months’s summer season sequence at the beginning of August.