Love Island returned to screens on Monday for the first time since the death of the former host, Caroline Flack.
Following her death, the programme was immediately pulled off air on Saturday and Sunday night as a mark of respect to Caroline and her family after the presenter died at the age of 40.
But, some of the unseen footage may never grace TV screens.
Following the announcement that one couple would be axed during last night’s episode, 72 hours’ worth of filming had to be fitted into just one episode.
Monday’s episode opened with a tribute to Caroline after a lawyer for her family confirmed that the presenter had taken her own life after her body was discovered by pal Lou Teasdale at her London home on Saturday morning.
The emotional tribute opened up with a shot of the South African mountains and ocean as voiceover artist, Iain Stirling spoke about his friend.
Following the touching tribute, viewers at home witnessed the fallout from Friday’s episode as Luke T and Siannise opened up about becoming official with one another.
The romantic hopefuls went on to play a tense game as they were forced to pick which couple was the grumpiest, who was most likely to cheat and the worst in the morning.
(Image: ITV)
Towards the end of the episode, the Islanders were then made to pick the least two compatible couples in front of each other around the outdoor fire pit.
Only then was it announced that a couple would be brutally dumped in last night’s episode – despite viewers not seeing any footage from Saturday or Sunday.
Islanders normally receive one day of rest away from the cameras, which would make up some of the missing footage.
(Image: ITV)
However, last night’s episode saw two full days of filming crammed into an hour-long episode.
This could mean that crucial scenes will have been cut, including the fall out from last week’s vote off.
Ahead of Monday’s episode, Director of Television at ITV – Kevin Lygo said: “Everyone at ITV is absolutely devastated and still trying to process this tragic news. Caroline was part of Love Island from the very beginning and her passion, dedication and boundless energy contributed to the show’s success.
“After Caroline stepped down from the show ITV made it clear that the door was left open for her to return and the Love Island production team remained in regular contact with her and continued to offer support over the last few months.
(Image: ITV)
“Love Island will return tonight and will include a tribute to Caroline that the team in South Africa and Iain Stirling have put together. Caroline loved Love Island and was very vocal in her support of the show. Viewers could relate to her and she to them and that was a big part of the programme’s success. We will all miss her very much.”
For emotional support, you can call the Samaritans 24-hour helpline on 116 123, email jo@samaritans.org, visit a Samaritans branch in person or go to the Samaritans website.
