Love Island’s Yewande Biala defends show over race issue accusations

Yewande Biala has spoken out against those who think there are race issues in the Love Island villa.

The 23-year-old star was eliminated from the show at the beginning of this week after Danny Williams decided to dump her in favour of Arabella Chi.

Speaking to Digital Spy and the press after the show left: ‘The race issues never crossed my mind at all. I don’t think that there is a race issue on the show at all.

‘I was fortunate enough to find someone and connect with someone, it was just unfortunate that he kind of broke my heart. And that’s why I was dumped.’

Earlier this week, following concerns that BAME members of the Love Island villa were being given less airtime than others, ITV bosses were forced to step in to defend the show.

Appearing before the Digital, Culture, Media and Sports Committee to discuss reality TV show aftercare, Chief Executive Dame Carolyn McCall said there is ‘no evidence’ of contestants from BAME backgrounds getting less screen time than white contestants.

She was asked about claims by Love Island fans and former stars such as Sherif Lanre – who was dropped from the show – who felt that black contestants weren’t shown on screen as much.

McCall argued that Yewande Biala and Danny Williams being at the centre of recent major drama, and Michael Griffiths and Amber Gill’s popularity was evidence this wasn’t the case.

She told the committee: ‘There’s diversity in terms of background and in terms of BAME. I think we work very hard to make sure it’s as representative as possible..

‘I don’t see the evidence for [BAME contestants getting less screen time] and if there was we would take that very seriously.’

Despite the savage dumping, which even appeared to be set up by Danny to be her until the final second, Yewande doesn’t think that his relationship with Arabella is going to last.

‘I hate it when a bombshell comes in saying “I want to get to know everyone”, because that is a lie. You know who you’re going for,’ Yewande continued, citing the difficulties they’ll face if they enter a relationship.’

‘She knew she wanted Danny. I feel like if he does get to know her, it’s not going to work. There are so many factors – they’re so different, and the age gap,’ Yewande added.

‘You have to be realistic. He’s just starting his life – he’s only 21. They are in two different phases of their lives. In the villa, it’s very easy to forget.’

Love Island continues tonight at 9pm on ITV2

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