Montel McKenzie has made waves as he returns to the Love Island villa, dubbed Love Island All Stars, ready to explore new romantic connections and confront past disappointments.
The semi-professional footballer, who played for Billericay Town FC prior to his return, first entered the Love Island scene during the summer series of 2023. With his calm demeanor and willingness to shake things up, Montel captivated viewers during his initial stint. He coupled with Leah Taylor but faced turbulence as his flirtations during Casa Amor raised eyebrows.
Montel, now 27 years old and hailing from East London, commented on assumptions made during his first appearance: "I think people thought I was a bit boring or not talkative, but there was just no drama for me. Some people like to talk up when there’s loads of people in the room to be the loudest. I’m not going to compete with someone and speak the loudest. I’m just chill," he explained during the show's recent episodes.
His relationship with Leah seemed promising at first, but it ended shortly after they were dumped from the villa. Leah confirmed their decision to part ways two weeks after leaving, stating, "Our time in the villa was absolutely incredible, but we’ve actually decided to just be friends. I do really like him, but I feel like for me it's never enough," as reported by The Sun.
Meanwhile, Montel is optimistic about his chances this time around. "I want to find love and Love Island is the best environment to find it," he declared, hinting at his interest in other islanders, particularly Catherine Agbaje. Montel's re-entry to the show will coincide with the arrival of Harriett Blackmore, another former contestant who has her own past relationship hiccups to navigate.
Harriett is determined to rectify past issues, particularly those with her ex, Ronnie Vint, who was involved with another islander during their breakup. "I think my last time in the Villa was cut too short so I think I deserve a second chance, I'm looking forward to it!" she enthused, eager to confront him about their past.
Adding more intrigue to Montel's return, Leah hinted at her own return to the villa by posting cryptic messages on her social media, which fans speculate could lead to drama when she meets Montel again. The young Instagram star filmed herself applying face masks aboard what appeared to be business class, igniting speculation about her destination and whether she might be heading back to the show.
Leah’s candid remarks on their split highlighted the difficulties they faced, including the unresolved trust issues stemming from Montel’s Casa Amor fling with Tink Reading. Leah had previously remarked, "Yes I forgave once in the villa and was ready to move on from it but I don’t forgive twice," expressing her disappointment with Montel's choices post-show.
Despite the rocky patches of their relationship, Montel still embraces love with open arms. After being teased about his previous lack of drama, he is ready to seize opportunities this time. His social media following, which has soared since his appearance, showcases his off-field endeavors as well as intimate glimpses of his footballing life.
While Montel's confidence remains intact, his return to the villa promises new challenges and rivalries, especially as he competes against both past relationships and burgeoning connections. The dynamic of Love Island All Stars, now featuring Montel and Harriett, is set to keep viewers on the edge of their seats as relationships ebb and flow once again.
With the series currently airing on ITV2, fans of Love Island will undoubtedly be tuning in to witness the twists and turns of love, betrayal, and second chances, especially with Montel serving as one of its most compelling figures.
Love Island All Stars continues to capture audiences with unexpected revelations, and Montel McKenzie’s return is just the beginning of what's shaping up to be another dramatic season filled with romantic escapades and confrontations.