Love Island newcomer Gabriel Garland has been removed from the villa after show bosses were alerted to his involvement in a past stabbing. The 24-year-old model joined the show during the Casa Amor segment but was swiftly ejected once ITV producers became aware of his connection to a 2019 stabbing incident.
Court Documents Reveal Connection
Garland is named in court documents relating to the conviction of Vitor Mazzer, who was 18 at the time of the offence. Mazzer was found guilty of two counts of causing grievous bodily harm with intent following a party in Casewick Road, London, on New Year's Eve 2019. According to court filings obtained by The Sun, Garland was present at the party with Mazzer.
It is reported that two victims had an altercation with Garland before Mazzer stabbed them. Garland was not charged with any offences, and his mother, Joanne, provided a character statement for him in court. Mazzer was sentenced to three and a half years in jail; his appeal against the conviction was denied in April 2024.
ITV Confirms Departure
When contacted for comment, an ITV spokesperson told Metro: 'Gabriel has now left the Villa and will not be returning.' The broadcaster is understood to have no further comment. Garland will still appear in the next episode, and there are no plans for him to be replaced.
Viewers Call for Improved Background Checks
News of Garland's short-lived stint has prompted viewers to demand that Love Island fix its background checks. This marks the second time this season that an Islander has left prematurely. Days earlier, contestant George Knight left Love Island citing personal reasons related to a family member's health issues. However, it later emerged that he had also been asked to leave due to using a slur.
Love Island continues tonight at 9pm on ITV2 and ITVX.
