Coronavirus: Love Island star claims being on reality TV show was ‘worse’ than lockdown

‘We were more contained,’ says Olivia Attwood

(Getty Images)

Former Love Island star Olivia Attwood has claimed that being on the reality TV show was “worse” than being on lockdown due to the coronavirus outbreak.

The 28-year-old argued that contestants on the dating programme were “more contained” because they could not speak to loved ones or leave their front door.

Speaking to Mail Online, Attwood explained: “There was more control. In the villa, you couldn’t call anyone or go for a walk. If anything, it was worse!”

That said, Attwood added that the number of people living in the villa during filming meant they were never bored.

“Obviously there was a big cast and they were constantly playing games with us so we never really got the chance to be bored,” she said.

Attwood continued by explaining that despite having a swimming pool and being in the Majorcan sunshine, the conditions for Love Island contestants were still tough.

“I couldn’t speak to any of my family or go on my phone,” she added.

“Right now I can speak to my genuine friends and I’m not just stuck with a bunch of strangers.”

Attwood went on to say that she feels she has more freedom now because she is able to walk outside her front door, so long as she abides by government guidelines. There are also more choices when it comes to food and drink.

“You can make whatever food you want and have a glass of wine, whereas in Love Island you ate when you were told to eat and you had minimal alcohol.

“Not to mention the whole country was watching and judging you!”

Attwood is currently isolating at her home in Manchester with her fiancé Bradley Dack.

“I’ve been trying to keep some perspective,” she said of how she has maintained a positive outlook while being on lockdown.

“I’m glad that on the whole I’ve been quite financially sensible, I’ve saved my money, I have a massive tax bill coming.

“I’ve always made sure I’ve got money for my tax and money for my bills, but I know a lot of people in my industry that haven’t been as cautious. It’s a scary time.”