
Love Island is famous for its flirtations in the sun and explosive drama, but it’s the contestants—particularly those who brought personality, power, and perspective—that remind viewers to return. From meme-creating favorites to impactful symbols of representation, these Islanders made a lasting impression that reached far past the villa. Here are 10 contestants (and couples) who played the game, but changed it as well.

10. Whitney Adebayo: The Viewers’ Unofficial Spokesperson
Storming Love Island UK season 10 as a bombshell, Whitney was anything but the background noise. Razor-sharp one-liners and smooth charisma made her an overnight sensation. Either clapping back with impeccable comedic timing or pulling faces that were the mirror image of the audience, Whitney was the voice of the people. Collider said her presence was unforgettable—half humor, half heart.

9. Amber Gill: Underdog to Unstoppable
Amber’s season 5 journey was the ultimate glow-up story. Originally underestimated and repeatedly betrayed—particularly by Michael Griffiths—she turned the tables and claimed the crown, accompanied by Greg O’Shea. Stellar credited her for standing up to toxic behavior and remaining authentic, demonstrating that a no-nonsense attitude, loyalty, and resilience could win hearts all over the UK.

8. Ovie Soko: The Chillest Islander Ever
Ovie was always the one who remained calm whenever there was drama in the villa. The cool demeanor of professional basketball player Ovie, along with his signature bucket hats and “message!” slogan, made sure he brought some much-needed life to an otherwise hectic season. The fans loved his drama-free, chill energy, and Collider is not wrong when they include him among the favorite Islanders ever.

7. Maura Higgins: The Bombshell Who Changed the Rules
Maura exploded onto season 5 and immediately redefined the rules of what a bombshell was. Unapologetically confident, unfiltered in opinion, and without peer in terms of comedic timing, she delivered daily viral moments. Her now-famous showdown with Tom before the hideaway is burned into Love Island legend. As Stellar confirmed, Maura broke the mold, and viewers loved her for it.

6. Kaz Kamwi: The Heart of the Villa
Kaz won over hearts with her bubbly personality and unshakeable optimism. She uplifted those around her, navigated heartbreak with poise, and supported other Islanders through thick and thin, even when her relationship with Tyler encountered turbulence. Despite her rollercoaster ride with Tyler, Kaz remained down-to-earth and affectionate. As Stellar described it, she was the definition of “protect at all costs” energy, and fans couldn’t disagree.

5. Serena Page & JaNa Craig: Centering Black Sisterhood on Love Island USA
Love Island USA Season 6 broke history with Serena and JaNa, two women who not only brought fire to the villa, but intent. Serena’s peace amid chaos and JaNa’s raw, emotional honesty were forces to be considered among the best representations of what Black women bring to the reality TV platform. Carefree Magazine celebrated its arrival as a win for real representation, sisterhood, and vulnerability.

4. Mimi Ngulube & Josh Oyinsan: A Masterclass in Respect
They had the chemistry going strong, but it was Josh’s unflinching defending of Mimi on Cinema Night that put him and her in a league of their own. Rather than condemning her for the previous chat, he defended her—a moment that deeply resonated with audiences. Carefree Magazine emphasized the couple’s relationship as one rooted in respect, having fans holding out hope for love that builds up and not tears down.

3. Jess Spencer & Ayo Odukoya: Standing Strong Through the Storm
Drama but devoted, Jess and Ayo survived one of the most-discussed love triangles in recent times. Following Ayo’s decision to pick Jess over Mimi at Casa Amor, their romance was under the microscope. They, however, remained resolute and gave their love meaning on their terms. According to Carefree Magazine, their relationship served as an empowering force of choice, dedication, and emotional honesty amidst public pressure.

2. Black Women Celebrated: Rethinking the Narrative
The appearance of Black women on Love Island—in the UK and USA—has been arguably the show’s most influential shift. Winners and break-out stars, these women have shattered assumptions around desirability and visibility. Nigerian writer Jessica Onyemauche referred to these scenes as deeply validating for Black viewers. As Carefree Magazine emphasized, it’s not really about love—it’s about representation, empowerment, and long-overdue recognition.

1. Ekin-Su Cülcüloğlu: Reality TV Royalty
Few brought as much drama, charm, or plain entertainment value as Ekin-Su. Her season brought jaw-dropping bombshells, not least her tumultuous relationship with Davide, which viewers devoured. With wit, confidence, and drama-kissed panache, Ekin-Su obliterated the divide between contestant and producer in the best possible way. Collider dubbed her the most iconic Love Island icon ever, and one can’t disagree.

More Than Romance: A Changing Show
What began as a summer romp of a show has become a platform where identity narratives, strength, and representation can thrive. From changing perceptions of Black love to aspects of new models of respect and emotional maturity, Love Island has slowly but surely pushed the boundaries of what love—and real connection—is on TV. And all thanks to participants such as these, naturally, the show is continually evolving and resonating.