A Birmingham-born model has revealed how a completely fresh mindset could give him an unexpected edge in the Love Island villa. Samraj Toor, 25, is part of the 2026 summer cast and has praised the behind-the-scenes support from ITV.
From Birmingham to the World
Samraj originally grew up in Birmingham before spending the past few years living in Germany with his family. Despite his modelling career taking him across the globe, he hopes to finally find someone special to settle down with. This will be his first television appearance, though he is no stranger to being in front of the camera through his modelling work.
Overwhelming Support
When asked about any reservations about stepping into the spotlight, Samraj highlighted the tremendous backing he has received from the broadcaster. He said: "I was really fortunate that the support from ITV and everyone here, including the welfare team, has been amazing from day one. From the very first Zoom call while I was in Germany to when I went into the studios and saw them, to even now being in the cast."
Samraj admitted he was taken aback by the overwhelming support from everyone he has encountered during production. He continued: "Everyone's always asked me, 'Are you okay?' It's not just for the sake of it. They're genuinely there to look after you. And I feel like even after the show, there's lots of support there. It was one of the things I first noticed that made this process a lot easier. The love and support has always been there from them, and they don't have to do that. So I really appreciate that because it is intense, and I'm just a regular person."
He added: "I was really, really surprised. Even when I got off the flight, the chaperone looked after me. And I don't like putting people out, so I said, 'I'm okay'. And they said, 'No, if you need anything, I'm here and you can talk. How are you? How are you feeling?' I've never spoken so much in my life."
A Fresh Mindset
Viewers will be reassured to learn that the entire cast, including Samraj, has access to that support network throughout the series. This is particularly significant given that the young model confesses he has never actually watched the show before. Rather than applying himself, Samraj was headhunted for the programme, something he believes could give him an unexpected advantage.
He explains: "I'm just so busy with my life. The family restaurant in Munich opens seven days a week. When I'm not doing that, I'm modelling. So I don't even watch TV. I don't really watch that much. I see snippets on TikTok and Instagram, but I feel like I'm going in there with a completely fresh mindset because I haven't got any thoughts that I've got from watching the show before. I'm honestly not really going on there with the perception of 'I'm going on the show'. I'm honestly going on there with the thought: I'm gonna find someone. So hopefully I do find that."
Love Island Series 13 begins on June 1 at 9pm on ITV2 and ITVX.
