Faye Winter, a standout finalist from Love Island’s 2021 season, has opened up about the profound toll her time on the ITV2 reality show took on her mental health. The 30-year-old, who finished third alongside ex-boyfriend Teddy Soares, has revealed how the experience left her grappling with loneliness, identity struggles, and the need for therapy, despite also serving as a transformative wake-up call.
The Devon-born star’s journey on Love Island was anything but smooth. Her time in the villa was punctuated by one of the show’s most infamous moments—an explosive argument with Teddy following the Casa Amor twist, which sparked a record-breaking 36,324 Ofcom complaints, the highest in the program’s history. The fallout from that moment, coupled with the intense scrutiny of reality TV fame, left Faye reeling long after the cameras stopped rolling.
Reflecting on her post-show life, Faye admitted to The Sun that the transition back to reality was far from glamorous. “I was doing work that didn’t align with me. I really lost myself. I didn’t like myself. I didn’t really know who I was,” she confessed. “I was in a lot of therapy after the show.” The influencer lifestyle, often embraced by former Islanders, felt like a mismatch for Faye, a self-professed homebody who found little joy in the glitzy events and party scene. “I questioned why I was participating in something that didn’t bring me happiness,” she added.
Watching her episodes back was a pivotal moment for Faye. The raw footage forced her to confront behaviors she hadn’t fully acknowledged, like her quick temper. “I don’t think I would have seen my faults otherwise,” she explained. “I wouldn’t have been able to hold myself accountable for the way I acted, going from nought to 60 real quick.” This self-reflection marked a turning point, helping her rebuild her life with newfound clarity.
Now embracing single life, Faye told The Mirror that she no longer seeks validation from others. “I’m happier than ever,” she declared, crediting her beloved dog Bonnie and her two “feral” rescue ponies, Keith and Kevin, for grounding her. Rescued from Dartmoor, the ponies have become a source of pride and purpose. “I had no idea what I was doing when I saved them from auction,” she admitted, but caring for them has brought immense fulfillment.
Her animals have been more than companions—they’ve been lifesavers. “Bonnie saved me,” Faye said, her voice filled with gratitude. “My dogs and ponies give me a sense of purpose, something bigger than myself. They don’t need words to show love—just a cuddle or a moment of connection.” This bond has taught her to appreciate the simple, unspoken support that animals provide, a stark contrast to the validation she once sought from others.
Faye’s love for animals extends beyond her personal life. As a charity ambassador, she’s passionate about the role of guide dogs, marveling at their ability to transform lives. “We take dogs for granted,” she noted, highlighting their unwavering loyalty and companionship.
While Faye is open to future TV opportunities, she’s cautious about protecting her mental health. “I needed to take a step back for my own sanity,” she said, acknowledging the damaging impact of her Love Island portrayal, which she feels didn’t fully reflect her true self. Yet, the experience wasn’t without its silver lining. “Love Island was a massive wake-up call,” she admitted, crediting the show with helping her grow into the person she is today.
Now thriving as a single woman, Faye has found peace in her own company and the unconditional love of her animals. Her journey from the chaos of reality TV to a quieter, more purposeful life is a testament to her resilience—and a reminder of the often unseen challenges that come with fame.