Love Island USA’s Pepe Reacts to Claim He Only Dates Blondes

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This gentleman doesn’t necessarily prefer blondes.

Despite the fact that Pepe Garcia-Gonzalez was seen with three blonde women on “Love Island USA”, it’s important to clarify that the retired basketball player has denied the assumption that he only finds blondes appealing.

Pepe shared with TopMob News that he doesn’t favor any specific type of partner, as he has previously dated women who are distinctly unique from one another. Currently, he has dated a total of four women, each one being visibly different.

Despite the fact that his current partner, Iris Kendall, shares hair color with his former Love Island partners Hannah Fields and Gracyn Blackmore, Pepe made it clear that he was not drawn to them based on their looks alone.

The individual from Madrid clarified, “I indeed ventured inside and simply expressed, ‘I’ll guide with my emotions instead of my reasoning.’ I merely continued pursuing sincere, kind, caring women. And strangely enough, they were all blonds, but that was just what my feelings were drawn to.

And now that they’re out of the villa, Pepe plans to continue to pursue his romance with Iris.

Pepe explained, “We’re similar in our dating style: you focus on one person at a time, and we go along with them until things either escalate or gradually fizzle out. We’re just curious to see how things unfold. We want to continue dating as we did two months ago, before all the chaos set in.

As Pepe explores his relationship with Iris, he intends to maintain a friendship with Hannah, who he had formed a deep connection with prior to her exit from the villa.

He expressed gratitude for the time spent with Hannah, noting that even though it might have been just a few days, it seemed much longer and left an impact. Moreover, he was content that he had the opportunity to encounter Iris during that period.

As Pepe navigates his relationship with Iris, he intends to maintain a friendship with Hannah, who he had formed a deep connection with prior to her departure from the villa.

He expressed his gratitude for the time spent with Hannah, saying, “Each moment with her seemed to stretch out, yet we carry the memories forward and keep moving. It’s wonderful that I had the chance to encounter Iris as well.

Read on to check in on other couples in the Love Island franchise.

The pair initially crossed paths during the eleventh season of “Love Island UK.” On the thirty-seventh day, Uma and Wil parted ways as Wil was eliminated from the island following Uma’s selection by Reuben Collins.

One year after parting ways in July 2024, Uma shared the exciting news on Instagram in July 2025, revealing that she and Wil were now engaged. Her caption read, “We’ve been keeping a secret – we’re officially an engaged couple!

For the reality star, staying on Love Island after Wil’s exit didn’t seem like an option.

She made her choice without any hesitation, as she stated on the Not My Bagg podcast. Her heart is set on being with Wil.

She shared with Lisa and Joe that she had found someone new. It takes her a considerable amount of time to feel as close and comfortable with someone as she was with Wil, but with only two weeks left, she didn’t want to feign a new relationship. Instead, she opted for being truthful.

In the villa, Amaya found herself on various paths, some making her feel misjudged and compelled to tone down her love. However, each choice led her to find her Prince Charming in Bryan, a man who complements and accepts her emotional depth. He reminded her she can soar regardless of her landing spot. As the winners of Love Island USA season seven, they flew off hand-in-hand, understanding each other’s quirks and promising growth together, just as Amaya put it – watering the seed of their relationship. Bryan acknowledged that Amaya’s eccentricities would continue to amuse him and that she had helped him evolve as a partner. He eagerly looked forward to moving forward with her and nurturing their bond further.

In this reality show, only Olandria and Nic entered on day one and made it to the final round. They kept viewers guessing as they delved into other relationships and alternated between being friends and reconnecting romantically.

During the finale, Olandria expressed that friendship is crucial in any relationship, without expectations or pressure, allowing individuals to get to know each other over time. She admitted that she discovered something significant: The one who stood by her throughout all the trials might be the one she was destined to find.

The runners-up couldn’t help but speculate if they were meant for each other from the start. Nic added that their relationship’s beauty stemmed from overlooking initial signs. Initially, they were deeply involved with other connections, but Nic had secretly admired Olandria all along. As time passed, both faced unforeseen challenges. They felt lost, perplexed, and even separated from the villa. When Olandria opened the car door as Nic left the villa, a sign seemed to appear on the road of life, offering them the chance to reunite and grow a bond that they didn’t know was there yet.

Regarding their future together, #NicOlandria remains to be seen.

Nic wasn’t certain about our future, if we’d be companions, romantic partners, or close friends,” he said. “Regardless, I’ve cherished your presence as a guide through the winding roads of life, and everything just seems fitting.

In the final episode of Love Island, Iris shared her joy, saying, “My experience has been remarkable because I came in with you as my closest friend, and now I’m leaving excited to deepen our relationship in reality.” Pepe also expressed his feelings, stating, “Our bond grew stronger each day we spent together. From the bottom of my heart, I can say that you are the only woman I could envision myself walking out with. You bring out a side of me that I cherish, and I’m grateful for that. Thank you, Iris, for everything – here’s to more days and memories to come.” Both are eager to see what their future holds together.

Among Kordell and Serena’s many long-term goals? Sticking together.

And the Love Island USA season six winners are still very much in love.

On Kordell’s birthday in May 2025, Serena posted on Instagram, ‘Wishing you a most joyful birthday to the man who embodies my ideal! A year later, I find myself still captivated by you. It’s awe-inspiring to witness your growth and the realization of your dreams. Your transformation into an extraordinary individual fills me with immense pride. I eagerly look forward to celebrating more birthdays with you! Thank you for being an exceptional boyfriend, partner, friend, and for making me the happiest woman I’ve ever been.’

Beyond the villas of Love Island USA, the long-lasting couple, Leah and Miguel from Season 6, continue their love story. As Miguel stated, “Each day just gets better,” a sentiment that Leah wholeheartedly shares.

On Miguel’s birthday in March 2025, Leah posted on Instagram, ‘You radiate sunshine all the time, everywhere. I am eternally thankful for you entering my life and filling it with nothing but love, tranquility, joy, security, and pure delight. My dear one who could even make watching paint dry enjoyable. I couldn’t have conceived a better man myself, I truly thought men like you were extinct or only existed in movies. You possess the most genuine soul I’ve had the privilege of encountering, with the kindest intentions towards everything and everyone.’

Following JaNa and Kenny’s third-place finish in Love Island USA Season 6 in the year 2024, they carried on their relationship beyond the show’s screen.

In a post on Instagram for her birthday in December, he expressed: “My dear Pookie Bear, my love, my heart, my Nay Nay. It has been an honor to stand beside you these past few months and witness your journey conquering the world.

He mentioned that what he loves most about his girlfriend is her heart. Everywhere she goes, her smile illuminates the space. Even when the limelight focuses on her, she never fails to make others feel cherished and valued. On the inside, she’s as stunningly beautiful as she appears on the outside, which makes me often find myself speechless. I consider myself incredibly fortunate to have her in my life.

In February 2025, I added a message for Kenny on his birthday: “You’re not just my best friend, you’re my sanctuary. Sharing life with you is something I cherish. Your love grants me the courage to be true to myself around you, and for that, I am eternally grateful.

Previously, both Josh and Sophie had attempted to find their ideal partners on Love Island. In 2015, Josh made it to the final three with Lauren Richardson, while Sophie entered the villa five years later. However, fate seemed to conspire when they both participated in Love Island: All Stars in 2024, ultimately finishing third together.

In a heartfelt post on Instagram last February, I expressed, “This is just the start of our incredible voyage!” I want to extend my deepest gratitude to each and every one who’s been by our side during this remarkable journey. Your support truly resonates with me like a melody that echoes around the world.

And she was correct that it was only the start of their forever journey.

In March 2025, Josh posted on Instagram, “Celebrating our one-year anniversary! I can’t believe you’ve tolerated me for this long. Here’s to many more years together, I hope you know what you’re getting into. My love for you is endless.

In August 2021, the winners of Love Island UK 2021 took their romance from the television screen and into reality, following a period where their commitment was challenged during Casa Amor in season seven.

In July 2022, they publicly announced their split via social media, but managed to reconcile approximately a year later. As of now, Millie and Liam are still sharing aspects of their joint life on social media, including posts about their trips, workouts, and dates, as well as on their co-hosted podcast that bears their names.

 
 

In the second season of “Love Island USA,” which premiered in the summer of 2020, this couple fell in love. However, they revealed their separation the following January.

In their first season on Love Island USA, the winning couple who became inseparable from day one, continued to date for several months. However, they decided to part ways at the end of 2019. They both announced it was a mutual decision, and they left on good terms. According to Zac’s Instagram Stories, they simply had different goals moving forward.

In her statement, Elizabeth expressed, “Though I wished for a different outcome, life doesn’t always go as planned, and unfortunately, things don’t always turn out as we might have wanted.

However, she found love again—getting engaged to Gianni Settino in December 2024.

As a devoted fan who can’t get enough of Love Island USA, I’m excited to share some personal news five years after the show – yes, I’ve found my way back into a meaningful relationship!

The second-place couple from Season 1 of Love Island USA dated for a while but broke up in late November 2019, each sharing their split on their Instagram Stories. The lacrosse coach announced, “Alex and I are no longer together. Sometimes things just don’t work out.

Alex conveyed that “going through heartache can be tough,” expressing further, “To me, our relationship was like a magical fairy tale, yet unfortunately, not all stories have the perfect ending.

Despite not emerging victorious, the beloved couple from “Love Island USA” attempted to navigate long-distance relationships by traveling to celebrate holidays together. However, Caro disclosed in a YouTube video uploaded in July 2020 that she had ended the relationship. In her own words, “He wasn’t as dedicated to our relationship as I was, which is why I chose to end it.

In the vibrant October of 2023, I, Caro, delightfully unveiled an exhilarating twist: I tied the knot with Rene Lacad a month prior, and by December, we joyously shared our heartwarming news – a baby girl was on her way! Our precious daughter, Amina, graced us with her presence in April 2024.

Amina’s Instagram post for Mother’s Day 2025 reads, ‘Thank you for making me your mom,’ which she said was the best thing that has ever happened to her.

One surprising pairing from the U.S. version emerged unexpectedly, as Kyra decided to depart the show to explore her chances with Cashel following his elimination…but learned that he had already come back. Regrettably, this musically gifted duo parted ways in October 2019.

Initially, by the end of November, things between Kyra and Cashel seemed to be okay again. Yet, regrettably, their relationship came to an end permanently in February 2020.

He expressed that they gave it their best shot during their conversation, as he shared on the NoFilter podcast. In essence, he feels they are at different stages in life…and to put it plainly, he believes she has blocked his phone number.

After making appearances on various shows like “Match Me If You Can” in 2021, “The Challenge: USA” in 2022 (where Cashel also participated), and “Love Island Games” in 2023, Kyra eventually found her partner away from the cameras in 2024 with dental student and former basketball player Tal Sahar.

In May 2025, Cashel was imprisoned in Utah due to accusations of domestic violence and assault, as indicated by public records. The subsequent month saw additional allegations of assault and domestic violence leveled against him.

As reported by NBC News, Cashel has refuted the accusations. His legal representative, Andrew K. Deesing, communicated to the media that “My client and his family are going through an extremely challenging period, and we request that their privacy be upheld as we meticulously work towards safeguarding his name and reputation. At this point in time, we’re just beginning our investigation and have no additional comments to make.

In contrast to many doubting their longevity, the first-season US couple, Weston and Emily, actually dated off-screen for some time after the show before eventually parting ways.

She clarified in a YouTube video from May 2020 that Weston and I are no longer a couple. Currently, I’m single. Our relationship was like a roller coaster ride, filled with ups and downs, but the long-distance aspect, especially during my college years, made it particularly challenging.

In the tenth season of “Love Island UK,” the winning couple departed the villa triumphantly, yet they broke up a mere two months afterwards, in October 2023.

According to Sammy, the breakup came as a “total shock.”

In his Instagram post, he expressed that although we previously discussed some private matters, it’s still uncertain since Jess is currently out of town and we haven’t met in person yet. To make things clear, he wished to explore if there was a chance to salvage our relationship, and felt this approach would be the most considerate way to proceed.

Sammy commented, “Although things didn’t go as planned today, I truly believe that Jess is a remarkable woman, and I sincerely hope she thrives in the best possible way.

In January 2025, Sammy made an appearance on “Love Island: All Stars,” and during his stay, he developed a romantic connection with Elma Pazar. However, by June 2025, whispers of a possible separation began to circulate.

In the inaugural winter season of “Love Island”, the winning pair connected swiftly, maintaining their relationship even through the various challenges that the villa posed.

They moved in together in 2020, but called it quits three years later. 

Paige mentioned during an interview on ‘Love Island: After Sun’ in June 2023 that she and Finley are still close friends. However, she felt they grew distant from each other. Later, in August 2024, Finley announced a new relationship on Instagram. Although he initially hid her identity, it was revealed by ‘The Sun’ in June 2025 that he is dating Jess Hale.

In the 2020 season of “Love Island Winter Edition,” contestants Siannise and Luke M came close to winning but ultimately finished as runners-up. After leaving the villa, they continued their relationship outside for approximately a year before parting ways in November 2021.

Yet, he swiftly moved on and became engaged to Chelsea Menna by the end of 2022, just under a year after.

During his time at Casa Amor, the scaffolder gained a reputation as one of the most disliked individuals in the U.K., after he chose Molly over beloved contestant Shaughna Phillips. Eventually, the public chose to eliminate the couple from the villa.

For a span of three years after leaving the island, they remained together. However, come the year 2023, they chose different paths.

In the following year, they participated in “Love Island: All Stars”. Molly paired up with Tom Clare and they were crowned winners of that season. Simultaneously, Callum found himself in a relationship with Jess Gale, making them the runners-up. However, their romance didn’t last long as Callum parted ways with Jess in 2024 (now dating Yasmin Deplidge), while Molly and Tom continue to be together.

Initially beloved at the start of season six, Nas found himself losing favor among fans when he ended his relationship with Demi Jones following Casa Amor, instead choosing to be with Eva.

In my expertise on all things lifestyle, I must say that Nas and Eva, even after being eliminated from the show, continued to stand strong as a couple. They officially solidified their relationship in the sunny month of July 2020.

Despite speculation about their relationship status arising in August 2023 following sightings of Eva wearing a ring on her left hand, it was confirmed by Nas in March 2024 that they had ended their partnership.

On Instagram, Nas shared that he and Eva have mutually and peacefully chosen to part ways in their relationship. There’s no animosity or blame involved in this decision.

He mentioned, “Over the last few months, we’ve been trying to resolve issues, but ultimately concluded that it was in our best interests. We’re now content with how things have turned out.

Nas went on to appear on Love Island: All Stars in early 2025, but ultimately left the villas solo.

In an unusual turn of events, one of the Winter Season’s least anticipated pairs finished in third position, but their relationship didn’t last long; they parted ways a few months following their departure from the villa.

Demi shared with MailOnline in June 2020 that the relationship is over for good. She believes it ended more from his side than hers, but both parties are remaining cordial. The lockdown and their geographical distance exacerbated the problem, leading to a lack of communication efforts which ultimately resulted in them drifting apart.

Since then, Luke has formed a relationship with the stunning Lucie Donlan from season five. The couple officially confirmed their romance in July 2020 and announced their engagement the next year.

Regarding Demi, she made an appearance on “Love Island: All Stars” back in 2024, and it was there that she encountered Luis Morrison. Unfortunately, their relationship did not last long as they parted ways later the same year.

In the fourth spot during season six was a relatively subdued couple. They continued dating for multiple months before parting ways in June 2020.

Jess shared with her Instagram followers that she and Ched have parted ways, but they remain close friends and she wishes him continued success and happiness, expressing gratitude for the support her followers have shown them throughout their journey together in the villa.

Oh, that was a tough blow! It’s always frustrating when the victorious couple from a reality show is the first to part ways, especially considering Greg was one of the newest Islanders in the villa. To everyone’s surprise, the beloved pair from season five managed to clinch the victory. However, their relationship didn’t last much longer, ending only weeks after the finale.

After some disagreement and debate regarding the specifics of their breakup (it seems Greg, a rugby player residing in Ireland, ended it through text), Amber stated on Loose Women, “I believe the demands of our careers and the distance were always an issue. It was something we had acknowledged, so I’m not sure what shifted. I wanted to keep things going, but ultimately, that’s how it played out.

Regarding Greg, he spoke up for himself on RTE’s The Late Late Show, stating, “She resides in the UK; any brand desires to collaborate with her, every event wants her present – naturally, she deserves all of it. That’s why I chose to return to Ireland and focus on my work here.

However, he found a new connection and kicked off 2025 by proposing to his love Jeanni Mulder.

Following an intense beginning to their relationship, the Instagram influencer and the boxer swiftly established themselves as the strongest pair during season five…making it all the more shocking when they ended up runner-ups instead.

In the whirlwind of joy that followed Bambi’s arrival in January 2024, I eagerly anticipated every milestone with my beloved couple. Fast forward to July, their engagement was announced, a dream come true for fans like me. But then, in August, an unexpected storm swept over us all as Molly-Mae shook the world with her heartrending breakup announcement.

She expressed her deep sadness by revealing that her and Tommy’s bond has concluded. On Instagram Stories, she stated, “I will forever cherish the greatest gift in my life – my precious daughter. It is because of us that she exists. She will always remain my top priority.

In a heartfelt episode of my Amazon Prime show, “Molly-Mae: Beyond the Limelight,” broadcasted in May 2025, I shared a personal update about my journey with Tommy. To put it simply, we decided to rekindle our relationship and face the future together.

Without a doubt, one of the couples from Season 5 that sparked much debate following their share of upheavals ended up surprising their skeptics by carrying their relationship past the villa’s walls in the year 2019. [The pair] managed to secure fourth place despite their tumultuous journey together.

In my perspective, it’s crucial to foster mutual trust, be discerning about information from the media, and above all, remain humble amidst fame. This is the key to maintaining our bond, as I emphasized during our appearance on UK’s ‘This Morning’. Essentially, staying grounded is paramount.

However, the pair broke up in March 2020. 

In my own words as an ardent fan, I’d put it like this: “I, Maura, have chosen to part ways with Curtis, a decision that wasn’t easy given our magical journey together in the villa. We both want to extend our heartfelt thanks for the unwavering support you all showed towards our relationship.”

However, Curtis’ Love Island adventure didn’t come to an end there. Post his brief stint on Love Island: Games in 2023, he returned to our screens on Love Island: All Stars two years later, sharing the journey with Ekin-Su. Unfortunately for us fans, they didn’t make it to the final spot. But alas, their romance didn’t last beyond a few months following the show.

Ekin-Su declared on her May 2025 Instagram post, as reported by People, that she and Curtis have chosen to part ways. This was a very difficult choice, but one made with great affection and respect for each other. He’s an extraordinary individual, and I will always hold dear the moments we shared, both within and beyond the villa.

About a year following their victory as champions of Love Island season eight in 2022, Davide revealed that they had ended their relationship.

Ekinsuofficial and I have parted ways, a fact I announced on Instagram last June 2023. I’m thankful for our shared experiences and I genuinely hope the best for her. I kindly ask everyone to show understanding during this tough period. Rest assured, I will always be there to support Ekin in any way I can.

Not long after, the pair rekindled their romance. However, they ended up calling it quits again.

In January 2024, Ekin-Su posted on Instagram, as shared by Cosmopolitan UK, “The past 18 months have been a tumultuous journey filled with highs and lows, much like any relationship. Davide and I had a strong desire to make things work because we deeply cared for each other. Regrettably, I’ve chosen to conclude our relationship and move forward individually. Breakups are never straightforward. They’re difficult for every couple. We kindly ask for our privacy during this time. The time we spent together and the memories created will always be cherished.

In the scorching summer of 2024, Davide embarked on a new romantic journey with Iris Au. At the same time, Ekin-Su experienced a fleeting romance with Curtis outside the villas, following their third place finish on Love Island: All Stars in early 2025. Unfortunately, they parted ways after several months.

As an arbiter of contemporary living, I must share a fascinating tale from Love Island’s fifth season in 2019. Unlike many other villa couples who found each other earlier, Ovie and India were relative latecomers to the game. Ovie graced our screens during the unforgettable Casa Amor episodes, while India entered even later. Yet, against all odds, these two lovebirds persevered, reaching the finals and securing third place in the competition. Their journey is a testament to the power of patience, understanding, and a little bit of Love Island magic!

However, the professional basketball player and the model quietly parted ways later that year.

She shared with MailOnline that, indeed, parting ways is tough, yet every separation carries its own challenges. The complexity increases when it happens under public scrutiny, but she reassured that she will persevere. Fortunately, she has a tight-knit circle of female friends who have been providing exceptional care and support during this time.

In early 2025, India appeared on Love Island: All Stars but left the show single.

On the first day of season five, Lucie and Joe formed a partnership. However, after he was eliminated from the villa, she swiftly started seeing several other men and even confessed to having deep feelings for a taken Tommy. Thus, it came as quite a shock to fans when they later announced that they were in a relationship post-season.

Similarly to how their first love story ended, the surfer and the sandwich maker found that their second try together also failed, leading them to separate in early December 2019.

Meanwhile, although Lucie is currently betrothed to Luke from season six, it appears that Joe is relishing his time as a bachelor, even though he made an attempt to court someone during All Stars in 2024.

After their stint in the villa ended, Anton and Belle became the second couple from season five to part ways quickly. Despite this, they managed to maintain a friendship, but Anton made it clear that there would be no romantic reconciliation between them in the future.

In response to Mail Online, the creator of the fitness app stated emphatically, “Absolutely not. This isn’t the sort of relationship we have. We’ve become quite close, but it’s more like being friends with your sister – it’s no longer romantic in nature.

In the year 2024, Anton made an appearance on “Love Island: All Stars”. There, he and Georgia Harrison finished in fifth place together. Unfortunately, their relationship didn’t last long after the show ended.

As fans began to fear that beloved character Camilla from season three might have no chance left, unexpectedly, Jamie appeared at the last moment, making it evident whom he came to support. Aww!

Since their initial encounter in 2017, Camilla and Jamie have consistently excelled, culminating in a runner-up position. Married in September 2021, this dynamic duo is now parents to three children: Nell, born in October 2020, followed by Nora in May 2022, and Brodie in May 2024.

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2025-07-17 03:48