ITV boss Kevin Lygo says that ‘Love Island’ is close to being cancelled this year due to the coronavirus pandemic.
The ITV Head of Studios admits time is running out for the team on the ITV2 reality dating show to be able to make the programme this summer and they maybe forced to axe the planned second 2020 series.
Speaking as part of the Edinburgh Television Festival, he said: "We’re approaching the moment of is it feasible? Will Majorca open its doors?"
Lygo is also concerned that if they do go ahead and make the show it might be sending out the wrong message to the general public who are being told to stay indoors to stop the spread of the deadly respiratory disease.
He added: "What signal might it be sending out if we’re doing a show where everyone is crammed together slavering over each other, and the rest of the world is told not to go near anyone in the park?"
Lygo also dismissed suggestions the location of the villa could be moved from Majorca to Cornwall, South West England, insisting it "wouldn’t be the same".
Lygo’s comments come after The Sun newspaper reported this week that over 12,000 singletons had applied to enter the villa this year.
A source said: "Applications have gone through the roof since lockdown. Never before have so many people applied in this six-week time span.
"Over 70 per cent of the applications have come from 18 to 28 year olds and the videos being sent in have been more creative than ever as people have more time on their hands."
Producers hired extra staff to help interview the wannabe Islanders on the video conferencing app Zoom.
The first ever winter series of ‘Love Island’ which aired earlier this year was won by Paige Turley and Finley Tapp.
New Love Island series facing axe due to COVID-19 pandemic
