Gabriel Garland, the 24-year-old model removed from Love Island before his television debut, has broken his silence to deny having a criminal record. In an Instagram video, Garland addressed speculation surrounding his involvement in a stabbing incident that occurred when he was a teenager.
Garland's Statement on Social Media
Garland, who was set to enter the villa as part of Casa Amor on day 23 of the current season, was removed on June 28 after ITV bosses were alerted to his past. He stated: 'There was an incident that happened at a party I was at when I was a teenager. This incident is obviously one that should not be taken lightly and was very traumatic for everyone concerned.' He emphasized that 'the legal judge has found no wrongdoing against me, and I don’t have a criminal record.'
Details of the Incident
According to reports, Garland was at a party in Casewick Road, London, on New Year’s Eve 2019. Two victims were stabbed by his friend, Vitor Mazzer, then 18. Garland was named in Mazzer's court documents as having had an altercation with the victims, but he was not charged with any offences. Mazzer was sentenced to three and a half years in prison for two counts of grievous bodily harm with intent, and his appeal was denied in April 2024. Garland, aged 17 at the time, received a character statement from his mother in court.
Impact on Love Island Appearance
Garland expressed disappointment over leaving the show, noting that he had formed a 'really, really strong connection' with someone in the villa that viewers did not get to see. He thanked followers for their 'kind and supportive messages' and said he wants to 'move forward from this in a positive way.'
Background Checks and Viewer Reactions
Garland's removal follows that of fellow Islander George Knight, who left for 'personal' reasons later disclosed as family health issues, though it emerged he was also asked to leave for using a slur. Viewers have demanded stricter background checks on contestants, but since Garland faced no convictions, it was not flagged during his application. ITV cited a 'duty of care towards participants' and declined further comment.
Broader Context
Meanwhile, Love Island USA faced its own controversy when contestant Alannah Keyser was removed for using racist slurs in a TikTok video. She apologized, stating the word is 'not in my vocabulary anymore.' Love Island continues tonight at 9pm on ITV2 and ITVX.
