The so-called "chuckle brothers" of Casa Amor, Joey Essex and Sean Stone, have been exposed as having a completely fabricated friendship, according to eagle-eyed Love Island viewers. The revelation came after Joey's shockingly calculated move in last night's vote.
In a tense twist, the remaining couples had to nominate the pairing they deemed least compatible. Joey, 33, made a bold and controversial choice, casting his vote for his supposed best mate Sean and his girlfriend Matilda Draper, 24.
Fans took to social media to express their astonishment at Joey's decision, with one writing, "I can't believe Joey voted for Sean. You couldn't write this script!" Another user commented, "Sean fought to not vote for Joey, but Joey happily voted for him, lol." A third viewer said, "All that kissing up and Joey still voted Sean out."
The pair had cultivated an image of a close bond, spending time together, chatting, and supporting each other during disagreements. This fabricated camaraderie, however, has now been exposed as a facade, a calculated move by Joey to secure his place in the final.
Earlier this week, Love Island veteran Chris Taylor from the 2019 series had raised concerns about the duo's behaviour, noting that their constant need to have their say had sparked 253 complaints to the show.
"I do think Joey and Sean are probably going a little bit too far with it - it's like fair enough lads if you want to have your say but it's important to let other people have their say and appreciate everyone has an opinion," Chris told The Sun. "I think they both need to chill out - at the end of the day they're making a TV show and it's causing drama."
Adding to the accusations of questionable behaviour, fans have accused Joey and Sean of "bullying" Mimii and Josh, repeatedly targeting them in and outside of games. Joey's recent revelation of Mimii's "secret mission" and continued digs at the pair during challenges have only solidified these claims.
Chris explained the potential for bullying, saying, "If people are persistently digging people out for certain things and keep bringing it back up and getting involved in other people's business, it could tantamount to the B (bully) word."
Some viewers have criticised Joey's decision to participate in Love Island, arguing that his "old-school" approach to reality television is outdated and incompatible with the current generation's values. Chris echoed this sentiment, suggesting that Joey's behaviour would not be well-received by a younger audience that holds "boundaries and morals."
As the final draws nearer, the remaining Islanders will navigate their close bonds and simmering tensions. The Love Island live final airs on Monday at 9pm on ITV2.
