Love Island opening episode disrupted by technical issues

The new series of Love Island finally kicked off last night, but it wasn't all plain sailing.

While fans were over the moon to have the reality show back in their lives, some viewers didn't quite get the experience they'd hoped for.

Led by radio presenter Maya Jama, the South African edition sees a whole new group of singletons putting their heart on the line to find that special someone.

They include 25-year-old Ellie Spence; semi-pro footballer Tom Clare, 23; Tanya Manhenga, 22; Kai Fagan, 24; 25-year-old make-up artist Lana Jenkins; Ron Hall, 25; Anna-May Robey, 20; 23-year-old farmer Will Young, 23; Tanyel Revan, 26; airport security officer Shaq Muhammad, 24; ring girl Olivia Hawkins, 27; and 21-year-old TV salesman Haris Namani.

ITV

Sadly, though, ITV suffered a few technical problems during the opening episode of the new series just minutes into it.

The first hiccup occurred as this year's batch of contestants were introduced, with PE teacher Kai's big moment moment interrupted.

Viewers also watched on as their screens went completely black, leaving only the ITV2 logo on the screen.

Other's claimed that they experienced some problems well into the first episode, missing some of the interactions between the Islanders as they met each other for the first time.

Needless to say, it didn't go down very well with people watching back at home.

Venting their anger online, one fan said: "Seriously sort this stupid glitch out man."

ITV

Another joked: "ITV don’t know how to handle Mayas presence on telly that’s why it’s glitching."

"Trying to get through this episode when there's a glitch every 2 seconds," cried a third.

While someone else complained: "I’m fine….

"I just think it’s funny how the ads don’t glitch. But do you ITV. Do you?"

Maya took over presenting duties on the show following the exit of Laura Whitmore, who had fronted the show since the tragic death of Caroline Flack.

Last year, Laura announced she was stepping down from hosting the show, saying there were elements she simply found too 'difficult' to continue with, including travel commitments.

Sharing the news on Instagram, mum-of-one Whitmore wrote: "Some news! I won’t be hosting the next series of Love Island. I hope I did you proud, Caroline."

Maya said at the time: "SO BLOODY EXCITED! GET ME ON THAT ISLAND."

Love Island kicks continues on ITV 2 at 9pm tonight.