Sammy Root is back on the small screen, stepping once again inside the Love Island All Stars villa, this time with hopes for lasting love after his tumultuous past with ex-girlfriend Jess Harding. The winner of the tenth season, which aired in 2023, has excitingly coupled his comeback with Danielle Sellers, another familiar face from earlier seasons of the popular reality dating show. Their dramatic entry marks another shake-up to this year’s lineup, following recent eliminations guided by fan votes.
Sammy, now 23, made his entrance on January 28, 2025, very much aware of the excitement surrounding his new chance. He expressed optimism, saying, "Hopefully this time round, I’ll leave with a relationship... I’d like to think I’ve grown from a boy to a gentleman," reflecting on his development since first appearing on the show. Last time he felt he was still figuring things out, and this new opportunity could help him showcase how much he has matured.
Sammy’s previous relationship with Jess, who he did not expect to leave after only two months post-show, adds depth to his return. The pair had been fan favorites, winning the public's hearts during their time on Love Island, yet shortly after exiting the villa, their romance crumbled. Reports suggest Jess ended things abruptly during one of her parties, choosing to cut ties via phone call, leaving Sammy "blindsided" by the media-fueled aftermath of their split.
"I thought I at least wanted a face-to-face conversation... Things don't always work out the way you'd hoped," Sammy reflected on his breakup with Jess to The Sun, highlighting the difficulty he faced processing the sudden changes. From feeling hopeful about their relationship's future to facing the harsh reality of their separation, his sentiments reveal the challenges many contestants experience after leaving the lavish, protective Love Island bubble.
Turning back to this year’s villa, the arrival of 29-year-old Danielle Sellers promises plenty of excitement. She first graced the Love Island stage during its third series and returns now with confidence and clarity. "I feel like I'm more confident... I’m going to just go for it!" she stated, ready to pursue connections among the current crop of Islanders. Noting her evolution from being just 21 during her initial season, Danielle is eager to explore new relationships with the same zest she had years ago.
Interestingly, Sammy's return intertwines not just with Danielle, but also with Elma Pazar. With previous flirtations established during his time on TOWIE, their reunion could add more drama and potential sparks within the villa. "Elma has said the attraction with Sammy was nothing more than flirtation... but Love Island execs hope under the South African sun, love could bloom," shared insights from insiders. This dynamic is underscored by the nearly ten-year age gap between the two, which Elma has mentioned as something to navigate carefully.
Sammy remains good friends with several contestants, which may ease his transition back. Pals with Casey and Ron from previous seasons, he also has the charming demeanor to ease his way back among new faces. Already, there are whispers of potential romantic entanglements, and viewers are eager to see how relationships will develop.
The latest episode promises to bring viewers even more drama, especially with both Sammy and Danielle engaging with their fellow contestants. The viewers will undoubtedly be watching clues to see how these introductions play out as they settle back. Fans know all too well how turbulent Love Island can become, often leading to unexpected outcomes.
With the excitement of Sammy and Danielle's arrivals, all eyes will remain glued to how they navigate the intense romantic challenges ahead. Will Sammy manage to find his ideal partner this time around, or will history repeat itself as he tries again for love? Viewers are certainly ready for the latest season to keep them entertained with heartthrobs, possible romances, and genuine connections.
Sammy Root's Love Island saga continues, and fans are keeping their fingers crossed for happily ever afters this time. Tune in to Love Island All Stars on ITV2 to see the latest developments as these Islanders seek love again, facing the unique pressures their counterparts often overlook.