Peacock has brought the “Love Island USA” villa to Rockefeller Center in celebration of the show’s eighth season.
The pop-up experience ran from June 22 to 24, with fans getting the chance to attend the villa at no cost. Reservations for the pop-up were sold out in hours.
The villa was initiated to celebrate fans of the show, and give them the chance to immerse themselves in the true Love Island experience, according to senior vice president of events and activations at Peacock and NBC, Jodi Arden.
“‘Love Island USA’” has evolved into one of the summer’s biggest cultural phenomena, with a fan community that engages with the show far beyond each episode,” Arden wrote in a statement to amNewYork. “Bringing the Villa to Rockefeller Center allows us to celebrate that fandom in person, giving fans a chance to immerse themselves in the world they love and be part of the conversation in a whole new way.”
Capturing the love of Love Island USA
The villa featured iconic backdrops and memorabilia from the show, including the recoupling firepit, glamroom and bombshell-entrance walkway. Goodie bags and free products from the show’s sponsors, CeraVe, Maybelline and Poppi, were gifted to attendees at the event. The space was lined with photo and video opportunities, designed for fans to engage and create their own content.
“This experience is designed to capture everything fans love about “Love Island USA” – the fun, the energy, and the sense of connection,” Arden wrote. “We’re always looking for ways to bring audiences closer to the content they’re passionate about, and this activation creates moments that resonate in-person and across social platforms.”
Kaylor Martin, a Love Island season 6 contestant, made a special appearance at the Villa on Monday. For her, staying connected to the Love Island universe through experiences like this is essential.
“I love being in the Love Island family and universe,” Martin said. “When I heard about this event, I was like, ‘I have to go.’ I live in New York, and it’s Love Island season, so I’m here for all the little events that are going on.”
Having the opportunity to meet supporters is something that Martin is especially grateful for.
“I always love meeting the fans,” Martin said. “I love meeting anyone that supports me, and just being a part of such a great franchise is such an honor.”
As the season persists, fans, and Martin, will be watching and cheering on the Islanders from home.
“I want every season to do well,” Martin said. “We’re all under the same family and the same umbrella, so I’m super excited to see how the season goes.”