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Ekin-Su Cülcüloğlu, who won Love Island UK season 8 with boyfriend Davide Sanclimenti, revealed that she turned down the opportunity to host the ITV dating show’s next season. A month after previous host Laura Whitmore confirmed she would not return for Love Island UK season 9, Maya Jama was officially announced as the new presenter. However, it turns out Maya was not the only name considered.
Now fan-favorite former contestant Ekin-Su is opening up about why she passed on the gig. She confirmed she was asked to take over for Laura in an interview with PopSugar UK. “I did get offered,” the actress admitted. “I would’ve loved to do it,” she continued, “but I can’t at the minute because of how busy I am.” In fact, the interview was conducted in between her rehearsals for Dancing on Ice. However, a busy schedule wasn’t the only reason she turned the gig down. “I said I’m not ready for it,” the Turkish soap opera star revealed, adding, “I want proper training. I’ve done presenting before but not to the level of Laura [Whitmore].” The 28-year-old also praised Maya, calling the more experienced presenter “funny, intelligent, smart, beautiful.” She continued by saying she believes the network made a “good choice” by hiring Maya. While she won’t be hosting Love Island UK season 9, Ekin-Su and Davide’s upcoming reality series will air on the same channel.
Ekin-Su Talks About Davide Romance & Post-Love Island Goals
The Love Island UK season 8 alum teased that “everyone will relate” to the two-part travel series, titled Ekin-Su & Davide: Homecomings, “because no couple is perfect. Everyone bickers and argues. And it’s healthy, it’s okay.” She also gushed over Davide, telling PopSugar, “It’s the little things, like when I’m asleep, he tucks me in bed or just makes sure I have my paracetamol there for me…it’s so sweet of him.” Despite believing that relationships should be private, Ekin-Su still wished that the public could see those “little things” that Davide does. Even though Ekin-Su and Davide won Love Island season 8 in a landslide, they’ve had to deal with naysayers and rumors. “People always assume things,” the Beauty Works ambassador continued, admitting that she reads negative comments online; however, she actually feels sorry for the people behind computer and phone screens writing those comments.
Aside from her relationship, some reasons Ekin became Love Island UK season 8’s breakout star were her confidence, honesty, and supportive friendships with her fellow girls. But she has also criticized her Love Island UK co-stars for caring more about gaining a social media following than finding love. Ekin has over 3 million Instagram followers and high-paying contracts with brands like Oh Polly, making her the most successful contestant since Love Island UK season 5 runner-up Molly-Mae Hague. However, her ultimate goal is to be a role model for young girls.
Ekin managed to find true love, supportive friendships, career opportunities, and a devoted fan base. Her fame has only grown as more and more people watch her season on Hulu. While Love Island UK viewers may be disappointed she isn’t hosting, they can rest assured knowing she won’t be leaving the spotlight anytime soon.
Source: PopSugar UK
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