Laura Whitmore is filled with excitement and "terror" about her 'Love Island' role.
Laura Whitmore
The 34-year-old presenter will replace Caroline Flack for the upcoming sixth series after the ITV2 dating show's host stepped down following her assault charge, and she has opened up about how the role will affect her usual work.
During her BBC Radio 5 Live radio programme on Sunday (22.12.19), Laura played the 'Love Island' theme song and said: "It starts very soon. I am in disbelief and shock.
"It doesn't affect this radio show too much. I will be flying back and forth from South Africa, hosting [spin-off show] 'Aftersun' on a Monday, live from London, and then doing this radio show on Sundays."
And the star - whose boyfriend Iain Stirling narrates the programme - explained that while she is grateful for the support she's received since the announcement, she wishes her time on the show was coming "under better circumstances".
She added: "I want to say a big thank you to everyone who has messaged me. It's kind of a dream come true but I wish it was under better circumstances."
Laura will begin her duties as host when the programme airs its first-ever winter edition on January 12th, 2020.
She recently said in a statement: "I want to thank ITV for trusting me at the helm of this huge show. I wish it was in better circumstances; Caroline is a brilliant host and also a friend.
"We've spoken a lot in the last few days since she stepped down. She has been very kind to me and strongly pushed me for this role.
"I've watched her host every series and know I have big boots to fill. I will try and do it justice.
"Above all, I am a massive fan of this show."
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