Love Island Star Reveals Why She Chose to Exit the Villa

Love Island’s Uma Jammeh has shared her reasoning for leaving the show alongside her partner Wil Anderson after Wil was eliminated following a recoupling.

The 23-year-old model and VIP host experienced a challenging week. News had broken out that Wil, also 23, had kissed Lucy Graybill in bed during their short stay in Casa Amor. Despite this rocky moment, the couple seemed to be finding their way back to each other. The situation took another twist when new contestant, Reuben Collins, picked Uma during a recoupling segment on Tuesday (9 July).

Reuben’s choice left Wil single and subsequently dumped from the Island. This turn of events visibly shook Uma, who declared through her tears, “I’m leaving.”

The unexpected announcement stunned viewers. Despite the efforts of other contestants to persuade her to stay, Uma chose to leave the show with Wil. Both expressed their growing feelings, admitting they were “falling in love” with each other.

Following her exit, Uma commented, “I knew where my head and heart were at so I wanted to be true to my feelings for him.”

Uma looked forward to normal activities outside the show’s confines. “We can’t wait to just do normal things on the outside, stay inside and have a takeaway and go on cute dates. Wil wants to take me to Whitley Bay to see where he’s from, but we’ve also discussed him possibly moving to London so I’m looking forward to the future with him. The only way is up from here.”

She shared that the connection with Wil was immediate and strong. “I instantly felt a connection and a special spark when I met the quantity surveyor which made me realize he was the person for me.”

“I feel so comfortable and happy around him,” Uma continued. “Seeing him waiting for me after Casa was such a special feeling, I know we’ve had our challenges but it’s made us stronger than ever. He’s my blueberry.”

As for Wil, he expressed gratitude for Uma’s decision. He hinted at a possible future together. “I feel like what I did and said to her was enough for her to end her journey with me, it makes me feel amazing, I couldn’t be happier with the outcome to be honest.”

Wil further reflected on his time in the villa, stating, “I’ve been in there for 3 and a half weeks and I’ve left with a girlfriend pretty much. The most amazing journey ever. I’ve met friends for life and left with a potential wife!”

Fans were saddened by the couple’s departure. They also missed Uma’s friendships with her fellow contestants and her endearing habit of giving everyone nicknames.

The couple had a difficult time as footage from Casa Amor, showcasing Wil’s indiscretions, was aired during the Love Island Film Fest on Sunday (7 July). Wil was unapologetic, claiming he had done what he “wanted to.”

He faced criticism for laying it on thick with Lucy and was accused of having “no composure” as he took her to the hideaway terrace to confess that she was his type.

Earlier that week, Wil seemed to backtrack on his actions by telling Uma, “I would leave now if you were to leave,” showing more remorse as time passed.

Some speculated about the real motive behind Uma’s exit. One viewer commented, “So this is how Wil swindled Uma into leaving after he got dumped.”

Uma has garnered admiration from viewers and notable figures, including former Vogue editor Edward Enninful, who praised her by saying, “You are a star, Uma,” accompanied by a star emoji.

Love Island airs tonight at 9pm on ITV2 and ITVX.

Source: ITV