Love Island USA’s Iris Kendall Speaks on Pepe Garcia-Gonzalez Split

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Iris Kendall is not hiding away her feelings anymore. 

Following the announcement of their separation by costar Pepe Garcia-Gonzalez on August 28, a month after they finished in fourth place on the Peacock dating series “Love Island USA”, the show’s star finally spoke up about their split.

As a lifestyle aficionado, I found myself desiring to maintain my personal journey under wraps; however, the outpouring of kindness and encouragement I’ve experienced upon exiting the villa has been truly heartwarming. Thus, I felt compelled to extend a heartfelt update to you all.

The bond we had is no more now, and though it didn’t turn out as I expected, I will forever cherish the one-of-a-kind journey we embarked upon together. It hasn’t been easy, but I’m determined to face this change with optimism, appreciation, and a positive outlook for what lies ahead.

Iris concluded by expressing her gratitude towards the fans of Love Island, stating, “I want to thank you all for sticking by my side. Your support is something I cannot fully put into words.

Although social media users are discussing possible reasons for their split, Pepe stated that he is choosing to ignore any rumors surrounding them.

Every minute, it feels like I’m under a magnifying glass, and that’s quite a challenge, I must admit. It really takes a toll, you know? Constant scrutiny isn’t exactly living the dream, as one might imagine.

He’s taking his time before diving back into the dating scene. Moreover, he mentioned, “At the moment, I’m concentrating on the upcoming steps, possibilities, and fun activities that I want to pursue.

Prior to the August 25th airing of the Love Island USA reunion, fans began speculating a possible breakup between Iris (aged 25) and Pepe (aged 27), as they observed that these two individuals had stopped following each other on Instagram.

In the pre-recorded special, they clarified that while their relationship was now exclusive, they preferred to proceed cautiously before formally defining it with a label.

He mentioned that we’ve discussed our views on dating, and as it turns out, our experiences differ quite a bit.

The spray tan artist clarified that she would like to make it official one day.

She suggested, “It seems appropriate for you to invite someone to be your girlfriend, considering how well things are progressing between us.

In that moment, Pepe expressed that they were attempting to date much like how they would have dated prior to joining the show.

Find out where more Love Island couples stand:

In 2018, the participants from Love Island UK’s fourth season departed the villa as a couple, but their relationship didn’t last much beyond their return from Mallorca. Since then, they’ve each chosen different paths.

In July 2025, Ellie made it known that she was engaged to her unnamed boyfriend, having been a couple for a year since they first went public with their relationship.

In the 11th season of “Love Island UK,” the duo initially crossed paths. Eventually, Uma departed together with Wil on day 37, following his dismissal from the island after Uma chose Reuben Collins.

In the month of July, 2025, approximately a year after parting ways, Uma made an announcement that she and Wil were now engaged. Sharing the news on Instagram, she wrote, “We’ve been keeping a secret – a beautiful secret.

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

She declared without a doubt, her decision regarding being with Wil was already made, and she hadn’t given it a second thought, as shared during the Not My Bagg podcast.

She confided in Lisa and Joe that she had become acquainted with another person. It had taken her a considerable amount of time to reach the level of comfort with this individual that she had shared with Wil, but only two weeks remained. Instead of feigning a new attachment, she decided it was more honest to admit her feelings.

As a lifestyle expert looking back at 2025, I can’t help but reflect on the split between Amaya and Bryan, a duo known for their fiery chemistry. In August of that year, just hours before the Season Seven reunion aired, there were whispers in the air as they seemingly unfollowed each other on Instagram. The signs were unmistakable.

Sadly, two days later, those rumors proved to be all too true when Amaya, the self-proclaimed sensitive gangster, took to social media to announce that she and Bryan had parted ways. It was a bitter pill for their many fans to swallow, but sometimes, the harsh realities of life take precedence over our dreams and desires.

Following our departure from the villa, it was evident that we were embarking on separate paths,” she posted on her Instagram Stories. “Our goals didn’t match and being in a relationship should be like a team playing together; if one part of the sea tastes salty, you don’t need to drink all of it to know.

In this reality show, it was only Olandria and Nic who showed up on day one and made it to the finale. They kept viewers guessing as they delved into other relationships and alternated between being friends and rekindling their connection.

During the finale, Olandria shared her thoughts, “True friendship is key to a strong relationship; no expectations or pressure, just two people getting to know each other gradually.” She then revealed a profound realization, “The one who’s been by your side throughout it all might just be the person you were destined to find.”

The runners-up couldn’t help but ponder if they should have been together from the start. Nic added, “I believe our relationship’s charm lay in missing those early signs.” Initially entangled with other connections, he admitted to having always harbored feelings for her. As time passed, they encountered challenges neither could foresee. They felt lost, puzzled, and even parted ways from the villa. When Olandria opened the car door as Nic departed the villa, a sign emerged on the road of life – a chance for them to reconnect and cultivate a bond they hadn’t realized was there before.

As for what lies ahead for #NicOlandria? Well, only time will tell…

At the reunion, Nic clearly stated that they’ve always preferred a patient approach to their relationship, avoiding being influenced by external pressures. He also shared that they enjoy spending time together on trips and have exciting plans for future outings.

Although Iris and Pepe didn’t develop their romantic relationship until late in the season, they found that this gave them a chance to build a friendship first, which set the foundation for their future together.

During the finale of Love Island, Iris expressed her joy by saying, “My experience here has been amazing because it started with you as my best friend, and now I’m leaving here excited to know more about you in real life.”

The fourth-place finishers were eager for what’s next, mentioning at the reunion that they were exclusive. However, rumors of a possible split emerged before the episode due to fans noticing Iris and Pepe unfollowing each other on Instagram.

He confirmed their breakup on Aug. 28. 

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.

Wishing a very happy birthday to the one who embodies my ideal man! A year later, I’m still as smitten as ever. Watching your dreams unfold before my eyes is an incredible experience, and I am so incredibly proud of the person you are becoming day by day. I can’t wait to celebrate more birthdays with you! Thank you for being an outstanding boyfriend, partner, friend, and making me the happiest girl around.

Beyond the villas of Love Island USA, the season six runner-ups Leah and Miguel continue to thrive in their relationship, with Miguel expressing that each day just keeps improving. Naturally, Leah concurs.

As a lifestyle enthusiast, I’d express it this way: “On Miguel’s birthday in March 2025, I penned on Instagram that he radiates an endless warmth like sunlight, making every moment brighter. I am eternally thankful for the day you entered my life, bringing love, tranquility, happiness, security, and unadulterated joy with you. You’ve even managed to make mundane activities like watching paint dry delightful. Frankly, I couldn’t have envisioned a better man myself, thinking genuine men like you were a myth or only found in movies. Your soul is as pure as they come, with the best intentions towards all things and people.

In the summer of 2025, one year after placing third on Love Island USA’s sixth season in 2024, JaNa and Kenny called it quits, as verified by a source to TopMob News.

The news came as a shock to fans, who adored their sweet tributes to one another online.

On your birthday in December 2024, he expressed his heartfelt feelings towards Pookie Bear, his love, and the core of his being, via Instagram. He mentioned that it has been a privilege to be with her for the past few months, witnessing her conquer the world.

He went on, “Your smile illuminates any space you enter. Regardless of how bright the stage lights may be, you never miss an opportunity to make others feel cherished, valued, and adored. You possess a stunning inner beauty that matches your outer charm, which leaves me constantly amazed and at a loss for words. I am incredibly fortunate to have you in my life.

On February 2025’s Kenny’s birthday, I included Jana with a note expressing, “You’re not just my best friend, but my sanctuary. Sharing life with you brings me joy. Your love emboldens me to be authentic around you, and for that, I am eternally grateful.

Previously, Josh and Sophie each sought their perfect matches on Love Island – Josh went as far as third place with Lauren Richardson in 2015, while Sophie joined the villas five years later. However, it was destiny that brought them together when they both participated in Love Island: All Stars in 2024 and ended up finishing third together.

In her Instagram post from February, she expressed, “We’re just getting started!” She also conveyed heartfelt gratitude to all who have been part of our voyage, stating that their support truly touches the core of our world.

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

In March 2025, Josh posted on Instagram saying, “Our one-year anniversary! I still can’t believe you’ve stuck around this long with me. Here’s to many more years, I hope you know exactly what you’re getting yourself into. Forever yours.

2021’s winners of “Love Island UK” stepped out from the villa and into reality in August 2021, having successfully navigated challenges to their relationship during season seven, notably the “Casa Amor” trial where their devotion was tested.

In July 2022, they publicly ended their relationship via social media, only to reconnect approximately a year later. As of now, Millie and Liam regularly share snippets from their shared experiences such as trips, workouts, and dates on social media, along with updates on their joint podcast.

 
 

In the second season of Love Island USA, broadcast during summer 2020, the couple fell in love. However, they announced their separation in January that followed.

In simpler terms, the winners from the first season of Love Island USA (who were together since day one) stayed together for several months but decided to end their relationship towards the end of 2019. On his Instagram stories, Zac announced that the split was mutual and both parties have parted ways amicably. He further explained that they had different visions for their future.

In a statement of her own, Elizabeth expressed, “Though I wanted things to turn out differently, life doesn’t always go as we might have wanted it to.

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

In her Instagram post dated July 2024, she wrote, “If you’re tuned into Love Island USA currently, yes, five years on, I’ve reunited my couplings.

In simpler terms, the second place couple from Season 1 of Love Island USA were dating for a while but broke up in November 2019. They announced their separation on their individual Instagram stories. The lacrosse coach expressed, “Alex and I are no longer together.” He further added, “Sometimes things don’t work out as planned.

Alex shared that “going through heartbreak can be tough,” and also mentioned, “For me, our relationship was like a beautiful fairy tale, but unfortunately, not all stories have happy endings.

Although they didn’t manage to win, the beloved couple from Love Island USA attempted to navigate a long-distance relationship by traveling to see each other during holidays. However, Caro announced their separation in a YouTube video posted in July 2020. She explained that the breakup was due to feeling that her partner wasn’t as committed to the relationship as she was, which led to her decision to end it.

However, in October 2023, Caro made an intriguing announcement: She had married Rene Lacad the previous month. In December of the same year, she disclosed that she and her newlywed husband were anticipating a baby girl. Their daughter, Amina, was born in April 2024.

Amina’s Instagram post on Mother’s Day 2025 reads, ‘To Amina: Thank you for considering me as your mother.’ She expressed that this sentiment is the highest she has experienced in her life.

The U.S. version of the show featured an unexpected pairing between Kyra and Cashel; however, Kyra decided to quit the program to explore their relationship potential after eliminating Cashel. Unfortunately, they parted ways musically in October 2019.

By the end of November, Kyra and Cashel had made up, but they officially broke up permanently in February 2020.

Kyra and Cashel were on good terms again by November’s end; however, their relationship lasted only until February 2020.

Or, more colloquially:
They were back on speaking terms by the end of November, but their romance fizzled out in February 2020 for good.

On the NoFilter podcast, he expressed that we put forth a strong effort, but it seems we are at different stages in our lives…He admitted that she has stopped contacting him by blocking his phone number.

Kyra subsequently made appearances on various shows such as “Match Me If You Can” in 2021, “The Challenge: USA” in 2022 (where Cashel also took part), and “Love Island Games” in 2023. However, she found her match away from the cameras with dental student and ex-basketball player Tal Sahar in 2024.

Last year, in May 2025, I found myself behind bars in Utah, as per the reports online, due to some alarming allegations of domestic violence and assault. And just a month after that, my life took another tumultuous turn when fresh charges of assault and domestic violence were hurled against me. It’s been a challenging time for me, but I remain hopeful for justice and a chance to clear my name.

As reported by NBC News, Cashel has refuted the accusations. His lawyer, Andrew K. Deesing, stated to the media, “My client and his family are going through a tough period, and we request that their privacy is maintained while we tirelessly work to safeguard his name and reputation. At this point in time, we’re still in the initial stages of the case, and thus, we don’t have any additional comments.

In contrast to many doubting their long-term prospects, the first season’s American couple, Weston and Emily, did indeed spend some time dating in real life following the villa, ultimately choosing to part ways later on.

In a YouTube video from May 2020, she clarified that Weston and I are no longer a couple. Currently, I’m single. Our relationship was quite a ride, filled with ups and downs… It was particularly challenging due to the distance, especially since I was in college.

In season 10, the winning couple from Love Island UK left the villa victorious, yet they announced their separation only two months later, in October 2023.

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

In a private setting, our conversation remained unresolved due to Jess being absent. Unfortunately, we haven’t had the opportunity to talk face-to-face yet. Recently, I took to Instagram to express my thoughts, stating: “I genuinely hoped that there might be a chance for us to work things out and felt this approach would demonstrate the utmost respect.

Sammy noted, “Although events turned out differently today, I believe Jess is a remarkable woman, and sincerely hope she thrives.

In early 2025, Sammy made an appearance on “Love Island: All Stars”. There, he developed a romantic connection with Elma Pazar. However, speculations about their separation started surfacing in June 2025.

In the inaugural winter season of “Love Island,” the victors promptly paired up, maintaining their relationship throughout the various challenges that the villa presented.

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

Paige stated during an appearance on ‘Love Island: After Sun’ in June 2023 that she and Finley are still very close friends. However, she mentioned that they grew distant over time. Yet, in August 2024, Finley unveiled a new relationship on Instagram. At first, his partner remained unidentified, but The Sun confirmed in June 2025 that he is dating Jess Hale.

In the reality TV show, Winter Love Island of 2020, Siannise and Luke, who were the first runners-up, developed their romance within the villa. They continued dating for approximately a year following the show’s end, but unfortunately split up in November 2021.

In an exhilarating twist of events that left my heart fluttering, it seems our beloved idol has stepped into the realm of romance once more! I’m overjoyed to share that he got engaged to the radiant Chelsea Menna just a short while ago in 2022. The news is making me swoon with excitement!

During his time at Casa Amor in the U.K., the scaffolder gained notoriety as one of the most disliked individuals when he chose Molly over beloved contestant Shaughna Phillips. Eventually, due to public opinion, the couple was voted off the villa.

During those three years away from the island, I remained united with them, but come 2023, our paths diverged once more.

The subsequent year, they both appeared on “Love Island: All Stars”. Molly paired up with Tom Clare and won the season together. On the other hand, Callum started a relationship with Jess Gale and finished as runners-up. However, their romance didn’t last long; Callum parted ways with Jess in 2024 (now dating Yasmin Deplidge), while Molly and Tom have remained together.

Initially, Nas was well-liked at the start of season six. However, his relationship choices later in the storyline, specifically ending things with Demi Jones and then moving on with Eva after Casa Amor, caused some viewers to lose their support for him.

Despite being eliminated from the show, Nas and Eva chose to stay together, and they officially declared their relationship in July 2020.

Despite speculation suggesting an engagement in August 2023 following Eva’s public appearance wearing a ring on her finger, Nas clarified in March 2024 that they had actually ended their relationship.

Sadly, Eva and I have chosen to part ways. There’s no animosity or fault to be found – it was a joint and entirely cordial decision we reached together.

Over the last few months, we’ve been trying to find a solution, but eventually realized that it was better for both of us. Now, we’re at peace with the situation.

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

During the winter season, an unlikely pairing finished in third position; however, they parted ways a few months afterward, soon after exiting the villa.

Demi shared with MailOnline in June 2020 that the relationship has ended definitively. She believes the split was more initiated by him than her, but it was a joint decision and they remain friendly. The lockdown, along with the distance between them, made the relationship deteriorate. With little communication effort from both sides, they grew apart over time.

Since then, Luke has formed a relationship with the stunning blonde from season five, Lucie Donlan. They made their relationship official in July 2020, and announced their engagement the next year.

In reference to Demi, she made an appearance on the show “Love Island: All Stars” in the year 2024. It was there that she encountered Luis Morrison. Regrettably, their relationship didn’t last beyond that year as they parted ways.

In simpler terms, the less prominent couple from season six finished in fourth position. After that, they dated for a while, but eventually called it quits in June 2020.

Jess clarified to her Instagram audience that she and Ched have parted ways, but they remain close friends, and she wishes him only the best. She also expressed gratitude for the support her followers have shown them during their time in the villa.

Ah, such a bitter pill to swallow! Isn’t it infuriating when the couple who steal the limelight in a competition are the ones who part ways so swiftly? Despite Greg being one of the latest Islanders to arrive at the villa, he and his favorite partner claimed victory in season five. Yet, their relationship didn’t last beyond a few more weeks.

As a dedicated follower, I’d like to share my perspective on the split between the couple, who are based in Ireland and one of them being a rugby player named Greg. It seems that the breakup occurred through a text message, which led to some debate regarding the circumstances. Recently, Amber appeared on ‘Loose Women’ and expressed her thoughts, saying, “The careers and distance have always been factors we were aware of in our relationship. I’m not sure what shifted. Deep down, I wanted it to work out, but things are as they are, truly.

Regarding Greg, he stated on RTE’s The Late Late Show that about his opponent living in the UK, she is highly sought-after by brands and events alike. Naturally, she has earned such acclaim, prompting him to return to Ireland and pursue his own endeavors 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 turned out to be season five’s strongest pair. That’s why it took everyone by surprise when they placed second instead of winning.

In the summer of 2024, I found myself delighted to announce my engagement, marking a joyous occasion six months following the arrival of our precious bundle of joy, whom we named Bambi. However, the blissful rhythm of our lives took an unexpected turn when, in August 2024, I had to share some heartbreaking news: the relationship that once held so much promise had come to an end.

She expressed her deep sadness by sharing that her relationship with Tommy has ended. However, she emphasized her eternal gratitude for the greatest blessing in her life – her dear daughter. This little one is, and forever will be, her utmost concern. Her child will remain her top priority.

In the May 2025 installment of her Amazon Prime show, “Molly-Mae: Behind It All,” Molly-Mae announced that she and Tommy were deciding to rekindle their romance.

Amongst many duos from season five, this particular couple was quite divisive following the turmoil they faced. However, despite these challenges, they managed to silence their skeptics by continuing their relationship even after leaving the villa in the year 2019.

On the UK’s “This Morning”, Maura expressed their secret for maintaining their relationship by saying, “I believe in mutual trust, take the press with a grain of salt, and above all, keep your feet on the ground. Avoid letting fame affect you negatively.

However, the pair broke up in March 2020. 

Maura announced in an Instagram post that she and Curtis have chosen to go their separate ways after enjoying a wonderful journey together on Love Island. She expressed gratitude towards everyone who supported their relationship. Despite this, Curtis’ Love Island adventure didn’t end there. He briefly participated in Love Island: Games in 2023, followed by Love Island: All Stars two years later where he and Ekin-Su finished third. However, they parted ways a few months after the competition.

Curtis and I have chosen to part ways, as Ekin-Su revealed in a May 2025 Instagram post, according to People. In her Instagram Stories, she wrote that this was a difficult decision, but one filled with love and respect for each other. He’s an amazing individual, and I will forever value the memories we created, both inside and outside of the villa.

Approximately a year following their victory in Love Island season eight (in 2022), Davide revealed that he and Ekin-Su had ended their relationship.

As of June 2023, my relationship with @ekinsuofficial has ended. I am thankful for the cherished moments and chances we experienced together. I hope only the best for her. During this challenging period, I kindly ask everyone for understanding and respect regarding our decision. I will remain supportive of 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 expressed on Instagram that the past 18 months had been a turbulent journey, similar to most relationships, as screenshots shared by Cosmopolitan UK revealed. Davide and I both wished for our relationship to succeed because we held each other in high regard. Sadly, I have chosen to part ways with him recently. Breakups are always challenging, regardless of the couple involved. We kindly ask for our privacy during this difficult time. Our time spent together was cherished, and the memories created will remain precious to me.

In the year 2024 during summertime, Davide found himself in a romantic relationship with Iris Au. Around the same time, Ekin-Su briefly explored love with Curtis outside the villas following their third place finish on ‘Love Island: All Stars’ in early 2025. Unfortunately, their romance did not last long and they parted ways several months later.

Despite entering the villa later than most couples – with popular contestant Ovie appearing during the controversial Casa Amor installments and India joining even afterwards – this duo managed to reach the final round, securing third place in Love Island’s fifth season of 2019.

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

She shared with MailOnline that while breakups are generally challenging, this one has been particularly tough due to its public nature. However, she reassured everyone that she’ll manage just fine. Lucky for her, she has a tight-knit circle of female friends who have been providing excellent support during this difficult time.

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

In the fifth season, Joe and I became a team right from the start. However, when he left the villa, I found myself exploring relationships with several other gentlemen, even confessing deep feelings for a taken Tommy. Therefore, it came as quite a shock to fans when we announced that we were actually seeing each other post-season.

Similar to how their first romantic endeavor ended, the surfer and the sandwich maker found that their second try also didn’t last, leading them to part ways by early December 2019.

Much like their initial love story, the romance between the surfer and the sandwich maker came to an end during a second attempt, with the couple separating in early December 2019.

Meanwhile, although Lucie is now betrothed to Luke from season six, it appears that Joe, who made his move during All Stars in 2024, is relishing being single at this time.

During the second half of Season 5, Anton and Belle were the pair who decided to part ways shortly after leaving the villa. Despite this, they have managed to maintain their friendship; however, Anton has made it clear that there are no plans for a renewal of their romantic relationship.

As a devoted admirer, I’d put it this way: “Absolutely not! It’s not the kind of bond we share, more like close friends than anything romantic. If you think of it as family, it would be like considering your sister as a date – definitely off-limits and nothing more than platonic now.

In the year 2024, Anton featured on “Love Island: All Stars”. This is a show where he and Georgia Harrison finished in fifth place together. But, their relationship didn’t last long after the show ended.

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2025-08-29 05:18