The 2026 Love Island star admitted her hidden ‘struggle’ on the ITV2 reality show in an emotional statement
Sam addressed his fans in a lengthy Instagram statement(Image: ITV)
Dumped Love Island star Sam Workman has admitted his hidden ‘struggle’ on the ITV2 show.
The 25-year-old electrician was part of the original line-up for the 2026 series but was sent a package during Friday night’s episode (June 19) alongside Namibia Olpherts.
His exit from the show came after the four new bombshells were asked to steal a boy or girl from an existing couple. Only after they made their selection was it revealed that the Islanders left single as a result of their selection would be dumped immediately.
Sam’s exit in particular was deeply felt by his villa co-stars, many of whom were left in tears as he prepared to leave. Despite only ever finding himself in friendship pairings, he regularly stuck up for his co-stars and even confronted Tommy Murphy over his kissing spree, which upset a number of the girls.
After leaving the show, Sam took to Instagram to explain why he was offended and reserved at times. In a lengthy post, he shared, “Carry on Love Island was a dream for me and even though I didn’t find love, I have made friends for life and memories I will never forget.
“Thank you everyone for the incredible support and love you have shown me throughout my time at the villa. I feel so lucky to have had this opportunity.”
He then revealed: “I know there were times when I seemed a little quiet. As you all know, I wear hearing aids and can struggle to hear properly in large groups, especially when lots of people are talking at once, facing away from me and with outside wind.
“I think because of that there were moments where I wasn’t as involved in conversations as I would have liked. I would love to use this platform to help raise awareness of some of the challenges that deaf and hard of hearing people face every day. And finally, thank you again for all the support. It has meant the world.”
His post led to an outpouring of support for the reality star. One admirer wrote: “This is the kind of representation we need more of!”
Meanwhile, another fan commented: “You were amazing! You were my favorite islander and I would definitely have chosen you in the villa. Watching your conversations with the other islanders often made me think about deaf awareness. You came across brilliantly throughout the series – authentic, genuine and you should be so proud of yourself.”
Sam has used hearing aids since he was just four years old. He opened up for OK! before entering the villa about his experience with them, saying “they’re really a big part of who I am.”
Love Island airs Sunday to Friday at 9pm on ITV2 and ITVX.
