The Love Island Romance That Ended Abruptly
Former Love Island stars Jessy Potts and Joey Essex captured viewers' hearts during their time on the popular reality show, but their relationship came to an unexpected end just two months after leaving the villa. The couple, who met during the show's eleventh season in 2024, announced their split in February 2026, leaving fans wondering what went wrong between the once-loved-up pair.
A Turbulent Journey in the Villa
Jessy and Joey's romance began under dramatic circumstances during Love Island season 11, when Jessy entered as a high-profile bombshell. Their connection wasn't straightforward from the start, as Joey initially rekindled things with his ex-girlfriend Grace Jackson before ultimately having his head turned by Jessy. Despite their chemistry, the couple faced an early exit when they were dumped from the competition just days before the final episode.
After leaving the villa, the pair continued dating and even discussed serious future plans together. In an exclusive interview with OK! magazine shortly after their elimination, they talked about potentially moving in together, with Joey joking that Jessy might be "packing your bags and coming over here" if she played her cards right. The conversation took an even more serious turn when they discussed marriage and children, with Jessy admitting Joey would make a "great dad" and Joey teasing that he wanted eight children.
The Sudden Breakup Announcement
Despite these optimistic discussions about their future, the relationship came to an abrupt end two months later. The couple announced their split without providing specific reasons, instead emphasizing their intention to remain friends. Joey explained their decision in a statement to tabloids, saying: "Unfortunately, we have decided to call an end to the relationship but I hope we can continue to be friends. I truly wish Jessy the very best with whatever she does in the future."
Jessy echoed similar sentiments, expressing gratitude for their shared experience while acknowledging things weren't meant to be. She added: "I'm so grateful to everyone who supported us and look forward to all of the exciting opportunities ahead." The breakup announcement coincided with Jessy's participation in Love Island All Stars, where she hoped to find love for a second time.
Post-Split Social Media Moves
Following their public announcement, both stars made noticeable changes to their social media presence. Joey removed all pictures of himself with Jessy from his profiles, while Jessy took to TikTok to post about having a 'post break up glow up'. These actions suggested both were moving forward separately, despite their promises to remain friends.
The couple's brief but intense relationship serves as another example of how reality TV romances can face challenges when transitioning from the controlled villa environment to everyday life. While Jessy continues her search for love on All Stars, fans will be watching to see if either addresses their split further during the show.
