Ekin-Su Cülcüloğlu, the dazzling Turkish actress and reality TV sensation, has sent shockwaves through the Love Island fandom with her candid reason for snubbing a return to the highly anticipated third season of Love Island All Stars. The 31-year-old, who skyrocketed to fame after winning the ITV2 dating show in 2022 alongside then-boyfriend Davide Sanclimenti, didn’t hold back when addressing her decision, taking a cheeky swipe at fellow islander Casey O’Gorman in an exclusive interview with The Sun.
“I love Love Island—I’ve come from that show,” Ekin-Su shared, her tone brimming with affection for the series that launched her into the spotlight. But when it came to returning for All Stars, she quipped, “If I could duplicate myself every year, like Casey, then I would. But I feel like people would get sick and tired of me.” Her playful jab at Casey, who has appeared in the villa three times, hinted at her reluctance to overstay her welcome on the iconic dating show. “That said, I’m sure this year will be absolutely iconic again,” she added, leaving fans wondering if her decision is final.
Despite her cheeky remark, Ekin-Su hasn’t entirely ruled out a return. Speaking at the National Television Awards earlier this year, she reflected on the appeal of All Stars, noting, “I think it’s good because people can relate to it at home when there’s an older crowd. A mixture is good, I think.” Her comments suggest she’s open to the idea, but only when the timing feels right.
Since her Love Island victory, Ekin-Su has become a household name, dominating both UK and US reality TV. Her résumé boasts an impressive lineup, including Dancing On Ice, The Traitors US, Celebrity Big Brother, Love Island All Stars, and most recently, Netflix’s Inside USA. But her journey hasn’t been without its challenges. During her stint on Celebrity Big Brother in March 2024, Ekin-Su faced harsh backlash, with housemates accusing her of being “fake” and “playing a role.” Her eviction, met with jeers and boos, was a low point, leading her to skip the show’s finale.
Reflecting on the experience, Ekin-Su told The Sun, “I shouldn’t have done Big Brother when I did. I look back and I genuinely don’t recognize who I was.” She admitted to struggling with her identity during the show but emphasized her growth since then. “Over the two or so years, I’ve grown and learned so much about myself. I’ve had countless mirror-deflecting sessions and healed from a breakup. I feel so good in myself now, and when you love yourself, it doesn’t matter what you do—you can still do well.”
Ekin-Su’s star power was on full display when she opened Superdrug’s newest store in Westfield, White City. Cutting the ribbon and welcoming customers, she stood proudly beside a vibrant pink Superdrug bus parked outside, transforming Shepherd’s Bush into a celebration of her bold, unapologetic energy. “Do you know why I keep doing reality shows?” she asked. “It’s easy to blame a bad edit, but you have control over what you say and do.”
Undeterred by past setbacks, Ekin-Su is eyeing her next big adventure: I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! “The jungle just has to be done,” she declared with a grin, also expressing interest in Strictly Come Dancing. “I’ve done most of the reality shows, and I have no regrets, but those two are definitely still on my list.” When asked about tackling the infamous I’m A Celeb challenges, she laughed, “Would I eat the testicles? Probably not. Maybe!”
Currently, Ekin-Su is stealing the show on Netflix’s Inside USA, starring alongside Selling Sunset’s Bre Tiesi and former NBA star Dwight Howard. True to form, she’s already recreated one of her most iconic Love Island moments—crawling to eavesdrop on a conversation. In a viral TikTok clip, Ekin-Su is seen cozying up to social media influencer Mark Estes, 25, playfully asking who he fancies. When Mark replies, “Probably you,” Ekin-Su dubs herself the “queen of crawl,” cementing her status as a reality TV legend.
Ekin-Su’s journey from Love Island to global fame is a testament to her resilience and charisma. While she’s not ready to “duplicate” herself like Casey for All Stars, her sights are set on conquering new challenges, from the Australian jungle to the Strictly dancefloor. With her infectious confidence and knack for creating unforgettable TV moments, one thing is certain: Ekin-Su is far from done leaving her mark on reality television.