Love Island’s Harry Cooksley has silenced doubters with a heartfelt display of affection for Shakira Khan, putting an end to swirling rumors about their relationship status. The couple, who captured hearts as runners-up on this year’s series, have been navigating a whirlwind of media appearances and photo shoots since leaving the villa. However, fans began to speculate about a possible split when Shakira was noticeably absent from Harry’s recent TikTok and Instagram posts. Now, Harry has set the record straight with a series of adorable, loved-up snaps that prove their bond is stronger than ever.
In a charming Instagram post, Harry shared a collection of moments that put Shakira front and center. One standout photo shows the couple enjoying a playful dinner date, snapping a selfie with their tongues cheekily touching as they pull silly faces. Another heartwarming shot captures Shakira perched on Harry’s lap during a cozy date night, his arm protectively wrapped around her as they grin for the camera. Captioning the post with a lighthearted “Embracing this silly life 🤪,” Harry’s joy in their relationship shines through.
The post, which also featured Harry striking poses in mirror selfies, diving into interviews, and hanging out with Love Island winner Cach Mercer, was met with an outpouring of support from fans and fellow Islanders alike. Dami Hope, a fan favorite from the 2022 summer season, chimed in with a playful comment: “You’re doing amazing sweetie x.” Fans were quick to join the love fest, with one writing, “You are a lucky guy to have Shakira ❤️🙌👍🏻,” to which Harry replied, “Very.” Another fan gushed, “Love is sweet,” prompting Harry to echo, “So Sweet.”
The couple’s journey hasn’t been without its challenges. During the Love Island finale, Harry and Shakira placed second, just behind winners Cach Mercer and American Islander Toni Laites. At the time, they were the only couple not to label their relationship as “exclusive,” a decision that raised eyebrows among fans. Harry later clarified his stance on Joe Baggs’ Not My Bagg podcast, explaining that the term “exclusive” felt unnecessary to him. “I’m not here for like, ‘Oh, we’re exclusive’, or making a big thing out of being exclusive,” he said. “The thing for us would be boyfriend and girlfriend. Obviously, we’re not there yet, but when it comes, it was never going to be ‘Do you want to be exclusive?’”
Harry went on to share that his feelings for Shakira are unwavering. “I think that goes without saying, from my side, at least. I only have eyes for her after I got back with her in the villa, and now in the outside world, it’s the same thing. I’ve got no interest in anyone else,” he confessed. His commitment to Shakira was further solidified when he revealed plans to move to Burnley to live with her, a bold step taken just days after leaving the villa.