Love Island 2021 line-up selected by ‘a team of experts’ after stars undergo ‘the strictest psych tests ever’
ITV bosses put this year’s Love Island stars through the strictest psych tests ever - to prepare them for life on and off the show.
Insiders say wannabes only got the green light after passing several rounds of checks.
And hundreds were turned down after failing to get through the gruelling procedures.
It comes as ITV tries to insulate itself from calls that the show from some who fear the young contestants are put at risk by taking part.
Two stars took their own lives after appearing on the reality series - with their relatives later blaming a lack of support from the show for contributing to their illness.
Yesterday a source said: "ITV puts the welfare of its Love Islandstars front and centre and this year’s checks were the most extensive ever carried out.
"Producers are mindful that this series is also set to be the most watched because more people are watching TV during lockdown than ever.
"That’s why the tests have been ramped up and a lot of help and support is being put in place."
Insiders told us that experts had the final say on who went into the villa – not show producers – and hundreds of wannabes were turned down after gruelling medical checks.
All contestants are believed to have had to fill in a questionnaire on mental health.
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They then had an interview with an expert before a third meeting with a professional who made the decision on whether they are mentally well enough to cope with fame and all the highs and lows that come with it.
Last year, ITV boss Richard Cowles revealed details of the show’s duty of care following controversy surrounding the tragic deaths of former contestants Mike Thalassitis and Sophie Gradon who took their own lives.
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“Also, as we are outlining today our welfare processes follow three key stages: pre-filming, filming and aftercare and we are increasing our post filming support to help Islanders following their time in villa.”
As well as three stages of pre-villa checks, islanders get help on dealing with social media and advice on adjusting to life after the show.
"They also get coaching on how to deal with social media and tips on dealing with their financial affairs.
