Format

VGTV has officially commissioned ITV Studios Norway to produce a brand-new season of the global reality phenomenon, Love Island. In what represents the largest investment in VGTV’s history, the broadcaster will become the exclusive Norwegian home for the format’s upcoming local version. Beyond the domestic production, the deal ensures that from 2027, VG will host several premier international iterations of the franchise, including Love Island UK, Love Island All Stars, Love Island USA, and Love Island Australia. This strategic move signals a significant evolution for VGTV, as it looks to solidify its position in the competitive streaming landscape.

The acquisition of Love Island marks a "step change" for the platform. By leveraging the format’s massive appeal among younger demographics, VGTV aims to create a year-round engagement model typically reserved for major sports rights. Filming for the Norwegian edition is scheduled for early autumn 2026, with a premiere set for winter 2027. The casting process has already begun, as producers seek a diverse group of "Islanders" to enter the villa in search of romance and public approval.

“Love Island is one of the strongest formats out there for a young audience - and a show that audiences are deeply engaged in. That’s why we’re going all in. This will be VGTV’s most ambitious and high-end production ever, with all the elements audiences expect,” says VGTV Program Director Martin Jøndahl.
“Bringing Love Island to VGTV is something I’ve dreamed about for a long time - both because I love the show, but also because I believe VGTV has the best conditions in Norway to elevate this format. We know how to create engagement and build talent, and we have what it takes to create a universe that lives far beyond the episodes themselves,” says Executive Producer Julie Easter Christiansen.

“We’re delighted to partner with VGTV to bring Love Island Norway back to its adoring Norwegian fanbase. Love Island is a global powerhouse format with 28 editions worldwide, drawing huge audiences, moving this franchise to VGTV is a huge milestone for both companies and I am very excited to see it thrive in the Norwegian market,” says Managing Director ITV Studios Norway, Lars Finnland.
“Love Island is much more than just a show. It’s a format that brings audiences together and drives engagement throughout the year, with an established fanbase. That’s a quality we usually associate with sports rights. For us, this is a major and important step in taking VGTV to the next level and building an even stronger streaming position,” says CEO of VGTV, Thomas Manus Hønningstad.

Love Island is a Lifted Entertainment (part of ITV Studios) and Motion Entertainment (a WPP Media company) format. ITV Studios handles international distribution.