ITV bosses want Love Island to get Big Brother treatment for new series

ITV is reportedly planning to give 'Love Island' the 'Big Brother' treatment for its upcoming launch.

The dating show - which is hosted by Maya Jama - is set to return for its 11th series next month, and it's claimed ITV bosses want to repeat the success of Big Brother's 'simulcast' from October 2023 by airing the first episode on ITV1, ITV2 and ITVX for the first time in its history.

An insider told The Sun newspaper's TVBiz column: "ITV want to throw their weight behind 'Love Island' and make sure it has a big, glitzy moment when the 11th series kicks off next month.

“Showing it across every channel means creating what they hope will be a big TV moment.

"It shows there is still a real commitment to the format even nine years on.”

When ITV brought back 'Big Brother' last year, the launch pulled in 2.5 million overnight viewers, while last summer's 'Love Island' launch hit 1.7 million including viewers from ITVX.

It's hoped a 'simulcast' could give ratings a boost and help the show hit "every demographic".

The source said: "Using the full might of ITV means reaching every demographic, including the crucial 16-34s.

“A cynic would say it also means wringing every inch out of the rating potential to prop up the stats, which have been dwindling recently.”

Late last year, it was claimed bosses were hoping to capitalise on the show's success, by registering the 'Love Island' name so it can be used to create their own themed hotels.

A source told The Sun's TVBiz column: "It may sound like a bit of a whacky idea but in many ways 'Love Island' hotels are a no-brainer.

"After all, the dating show is all about people basking in the sunshine by the poolside in luxurious accommodation.

"Then there’s the added prospect of finding love with someone while you are away. So they’re just trying to replicate the vibe of the show.

“Why not go the whole hog and give the hotels a total 'Love Island' feel?”