BREAKING Laura Whitmore launches new series after quitting Love Island

The Irish presenter announced earlier this week that she planned to step down from the coveted reality TV role so that she could focus on 'new projects'.

Her new series, Laura Whitmore Investigates, is set to take on "a series of controversial issues".

A description of the exciting new show reads: "Laura Whitmore takes on a series of controversial issues in immersive, investigative films for ITVX, which will see her using her journalism skills to reveal new insights on each subject.

"In this brand new series for ITVX, viewers will see a new side of Laura as she travels within the UK and further afield to delve into subjects that fascinate her and have an impact on our lives."

Commenting on the new role, Laura said: “It’s a dream come true to have this platform and work with a brilliant team at ITV through this series of investigative films.

"Getting back to my journalistic roots, I hope we can shine a light on some really important topics and issues, and delve into a variety of serious and interesting real-life subjects.”

Fans were taken by surprise when Laura announced her plans to step away from the Love Island franchise after hosting for the past three seasons.

Sharing the news to Instagram on Monday, she wrote: "Some news! I won’t be hosting the next series of Love island. There are certain elements of the show I’ve found very difficult that cannot be changed some due to the format, including the flying back and forth to South Africa along with my new conflicting projects.

"I wish it was still possible but know you’ll be in safe hands. I was only planning to fill in for Caroline for a series and it turned into 3 series."

She added: "I hope I did you proud Caroline."

ITV said it would continue to work with the presenter on other projects, and that it was 'grateful' for her input to the dating show, which she has presented since January 2020.

The channel said in a statement: "Laura has been a fantastic host across the last three series of the show. We are so grateful for everything she has brought to the programme but understand and respect her decision, and we look forward to working with her on upcoming ITV projects."