Jericho, New York, U.S.A. – As a massive “Love Island” fan, I would consider myself an expert. So when this summer I found the American version better than the one from the United Kingdom, I was quite surprised.
“Love Island” from the UK is the original, which started back in 2015. Although I am from the United States, I was more drawn to the UK version, which felt to me as if it was giving way more attention and the casting was more strategic.
Also, the pace of the U.S. show always felt faster than the UK one. There are around 36 episodes and in the UK version, but 49 in the American show.
The U.S. viewership increased immensely this year.
According to Variety, in the week of July 5th to 11th, the show became the No. 1 most-watched streaming original series in the U.S.
This summer, though, I felt differently.
First, Ariana Madix, from “Vanderpump Rules,” was quite the hostess. She fell into this role naturally and added the spice this season. Her charismatic nature brought a new atmosphere to the show.
Madix connected with viewers through the use of social media and the help of Cely Vazquez, the social media coordinator and past “Love Island” contestant. Combining these two with production made the season more memorable.
The U.S. version this season felt spaced out and the UK version seemed to run on to the point of being overdone. As the episodes dragged out, there wasn’t much value added to the narrative.
I believe another reason the U.S. took the cake for me this summer was the diversity. The American contestants felt more relatable and less superficial. Their connections and friendships felt even stronger this time, as the cast was more authentic.
I thought that the UK version was predictable this summer, with overplayed storylines and a lack of challenges. It felt like the episodes were the same, and if I skipped one, I could still keep up.
The U.S. version, on the other hand, kept me on my toes with the shocking dumpings and engaging challenges.
This summer, the U.S. version had several standout moments that made it memorable. From the shock dumping of Andrea to the insane casa amour recoupling, the show remained genuine and entertaining.
I am excited to see what direction both series go next season and hope we can get a Love Island Games, but for now, “Love Island USA” won me over this summer.
Jessy Siegmann is a Junior Reporter with Youth Journalism International.
