Joey Essex, the first celebrity contestant on Love Island, has been accused of receiving preferential treatment during his stint on the show. Reports indicate that he was 'promised the final' before entering, which led to his frustration when he and his partner Jessy Potts were eliminated just before the finale after being voted the least compatible couple. Sources claim Essex spent 'two to three hours' outside the villa daily with producers and was given flowers to present to the winners, which raised eyebrows after he faced criticism for his behavior towards them. While ITV insisted that he was treated like any other contestant and received no extra pay, insiders suggest his celebrity status influenced his experience. Essex's participation has sparked debate about the integrity of the show, with some former contestants arguing that it should focus on 'normal' individuals. Ultimately, the winners, Mimii Ngulube and Josh Oyinsan, made history as the first black couple to win the series.