Love Island All Stars Fans Speculate Ciaran 'Holding Back' for Ex-Girlfriend's Arrival
Love Island Fans Think Ciaran 'Holding Back' for Ex

Love Island All Stars Viewers Speculate Ciaran's Romantic Strategy

Love Island All Stars fans have developed a compelling theory about one contestant's apparent lack of romantic enthusiasm in the South African villa. Viewers across social media platforms are convinced that rugby hunk Ciaran is deliberately "holding back" from forming deep connections, with many believing he's anticipating the arrival of his ex-girlfriend as a potential bombshell contestant.

Social Media Buzz and Fan Theories

The speculation began when observant fans noticed Ciaran's comparatively low-key approach to romance compared to other male Islanders. While contestants like Charlie navigate complicated love triangles and Shaq juggles multiple attractions, the 23-year-old Welsh rugby player has maintained a more reserved presence. This has sparked extensive discussion on platforms including TikTok, Instagram, and Reddit, where fans are dissecting his every move.

One fan articulated the prevailing theory perfectly: "Some people on TikTok and Instagram think Ciaran is holding back because Emily might come in." Another supporter added: "Sean is only getting play cause he's the only boy that's really grafting. Like think about it none of the other boys are really putting themselves out there."

Ciaran and Emily's Relationship History

The ex-girlfriend in question is Emily Moran, who previously appeared on Love Island series 12. Their romance blossomed in 2025 following Ciaran's public split from fellow Islander Nicole Samuel several months earlier. The couple's relationship became public knowledge after they were spotted on a double date in Manchester with Emily's villa friends Harrison and Lauren.

Further evidence of their connection emerged when both shared similar photographs from the same Cardiff bar within one hour of each other during the summer months. A source close to the couple revealed at the time: "Ciaran initially approached Emily when she left the show just to congratulate her and stuff on how she was and handled herself on the show towards the end, which got them to talking. Both have been getting to know each other on a more romantic level and they're looking to see how things go."

Current Villa Dynamics and Potential Drama

Despite their budding romance, the couple apparently didn't last, as Ciaran signed up for Love Island All Stars series three, which launched in early January 2026. The circumstances surrounding their breakup remain undisclosed, fueling speculation among fans who hope to see them reconcile during the current series.

Ciaran's current coupling with bombshell Samie adds another layer to the potential drama. Should Emily enter the villa as rumoured, it would create an especially tense situation for fellow All Star Tommy, who previously dated Emily during series 12. Their relationship ended dramatically when Tommy chose to recouple with Casa Amor bombshell Lucy, resulting in Emily's departure from the island.

As the series continues, viewers remain captivated by the unfolding dynamics and the possibility of unexpected reunions. The speculation surrounding Ciaran's motivations demonstrates how invested Love Island audiences become in contestants' personal histories and potential romantic trajectories.