'Love Island' To Introduce Non-Binary And Intersexual Applicants For 2019
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Love Island 2019 is set to undergo a huge change for the new 2019 series airing this summer.
In a bid to make the show inclusive, bosses are opening this year's applications to non-binary and intersexual contestants.
The application process for this summer's series opened on New Year's Eve and asks applicants to confirm whether they identify as male, female, non-binary or intersex.
If you are unsure what those terms mean, non-binary is a term for people who do not identify as either male or female, while intersex people are born with a mixture of female and male characteristics.
The ITV show has faced criticism in the past for only focusing on heterosexual couples with executive producer Richard Cowles suggesting that there could be a gay spin-off in the future.
Richard said: "I would like to see what a gay version of the show would be.
"It is not impossible and it's not something we shy away from".
Why don't they have any #LGBT or hoy a non-binary into #LoveIsland? I mean, after all - we are encouraged to be more inclusive in every other aspect of existence these days...
- Lord Barrold (@lord_barrold) June 16, 2018
WHERE'S A SAME SEX COUPLE OR A NON-BINARY/TRANS CONTESTANT AT?! #LoveIsland
- Clare :panda_face::bug: (@Rosen_Scibbles) July 16, 2018
Applications close on the 30th April, and the form states you must be available from the 1st May 2019 to 31st August 2019.
In the past, the reality dating show has starred bisexual contestants, most notably Katie Salmon and Sophie Gradon who coupled up in 2016.
Last year, over 150,000 fans applied to appear on the show so hopefully this means we will definitely see some diversity sat around the pool this time around.
Speaking about the record number of applicants at the time, host Caroline Flack said: "I mean, why would you not apply?
"Firstly, everyone wants to be in love. Secondly, you get to be on holiday for nine weeks. Third, you get to get a good tan. And fourth, you get to have fun!"
She continued: "I think Love Island is popular because people can relate to it. People love other people's relationships.
"And all relationships are different. I like the love bits. Some people like the drama but I like the really loving bits. They're the bits that make me cry."
Topics: TV News, TV Entertainment
