Love Island All Stars contestant Jack Keating has been navigating the villa's romantic challenges while embracing a significant role back home: fatherhood. The 26-year-old, currently appearing on the show's third season, has been open about his journey as a dad to his two-year-old daughter, Maya.
Jack Keating's Unexpected Journey to Fatherhood
Jack discovered he was going to be a father after being eliminated from the Love Island villa in 2022. His ex-girlfriend, artist Keely Iqbal, found out she was pregnant while he was filming the original series. This meant his transition from reality TV star to parent happened swiftly and unexpectedly after his stint on the show ended.
Speaking to MailOnline previously, Jack explained the whirlwind timing: "As soon as I came off Love Island, seven months later, I became a dad. No, I didn't know before going on the show." He admitted that adjusting to post-villa life was challenging enough, but becoming a father added another layer. Despite the initial shock, he has called the last year and a half "the most amazing" of his life.
Co-Parenting with Ex-Girlfriend Keely Iqbal
Jack shares his daughter, Maya, with his former partner, Keely Iqbal. The couple had split before Jack entered the Love Island villa for the first time. They now maintain a co-parenting relationship for their child's sake.
While Maya does not live with him full-time, Jack has described their bond as "amazing." He typically sees her "every two or three weeks," and he makes the most of their time together by spoiling her. In a 2025 photoshoot with VIP magazine, Jack reflected on fatherhood, calling Maya his "biggest blessing" and a significant learning curve.
"I’ve always wanted to be a dad," he told the magazine. "Watching my siblings grow up, I really looked forward to experiencing that for myself. The last two years have been amazing watching her grow up, her personality is starting to come through... she’s been the biggest blessing of my life."
Finding Love as a 'Baby Daddy' on All Stars
Jack's status as a father became a talking point in the All Stars villa. He formed a connection with fellow islander Whitney Adabeyo from series 10, who initially confessed she had vowed never to date a "baby daddy" due to her strong religious beliefs.
However, after several conversations with Jack, Whitney changed her perspective. She acknowledged that Jack had "depth" and during a recoupling ceremony, she publicly declared, "Baby daddies need love too!" This moment highlighted Jack's dual quest on the show: finding a romantic partner who accepts his life as a dedicated young father.
As viewers watch his journey unfold, Jack Keating continues to balance his search for love with the unwavering commitment and joy he finds in his role as dad to Maya.
