BBC dating show set to rival Love Island bags for second series before first has aired

A brand new dating show is set for a second series even though the first is yet to air. The new BBC show is set to rival ITV's Love Island and bosses are so sure it will be a hit that they have reportedly authorised another series.

Stranded On Honeymoon Island kicks off tomorrow on BBC, with Davina McCall taking on hosting duties. But even before the show airs it's maiden episode, it's claimed it has been sanctioned for another series that could be filmed later this year before being aired in 2026.

“The Beeb has long wanted some kind of dating show that can begin to challenge the dominance of Love Island," a source said.

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Speaking to The Sun, the source added: "It doesn’t want the exact same format, just something that can provide a similar kind of tropical, steamy vibe — and bosses think that’s what they’ve got on their hands here.

“Of course, they’ll wait to see what the audience reaction is, but execs have already cast their eye over early versions of the series and are feeling confident."

And the source claimed bosses are keen to "renew their vows" with another series of the show.

The series sees total strangers marry. After the 12 singles meet for the first time during a speed-dating event, the matchmakers then assign them a spouse.

Later that day, the assigned couples tie the knot and head straight to a remote island with nothing but the clothes they wed in, an outdoor loo, and three weeks to test their connection.

Prior to it airing, Davina admitted of her role and her own romance: "I like to think I’m not too high-maintenance." But she said one thing on the show is something she would struggle with. "The loo.

"I’d have a whopper problem with the poo! I don’t want to hear farting and pooing – I still want to be fancied!”

Explaining why she chose to be a part of the show, Davina said: "These couples are taking a massive leap of faith – literally off a boat. It’s such an extreme way to fast-track a relationship.

"You see who someone really is when things get tough – how they handle problems, whether they’re resourceful. That’s attractive! Confidence is key in this experiment.”

And explaining what she believes makes this show different from the rest, Davina said it’s the heart: “There’s deep learning – about yourself, about relationships. Even if they don’t find The One, they come away knowing what they want and need.”

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