'Love Island' revives conversation about racial bias and misogynoir in dating

The reality show franchise “Love Island” highlights challenges emblematic of modern dating, especially for Black women and contestants with darker skin tones. Fans and contestants have criticized the U.K. version for implicit racial bias, with Black women often being picked last or eliminated early. It took eleven seasons for a darker-complexioned Black woman to win. Some viewers prefer the U.S. version, which they believe offers better representation, though similar issues continue. Scholars associate these biases with societal stereotypes and media influence. Critics call on the show’s producers to challenge harmful beauty standards and develop more inclusive stories, using the show’s popularity to promote positive images of Black women.