This season of Love Island USA has ignited a resurgence of watch parties across the United States, particularly among Gen Z viewers. As contestants couple up under the Fijian sun, fans are gathering in homes and bars to experience the show’s drama together, transforming what was once a solo guilty pleasure into a vibrant communal event.
Now in its seventh season and streaming on Peacock, Love Island USA is a spinoff of the original British franchise that places singles in an island villa to navigate romance and competition. Beyond just entertainment, these gatherings have taken on the atmosphere of sporting events, with enthusiastic fans engaging in group chants, creating rankings on whiteboards, and reacting passionately to eliminations.
A New Type of Social Experience
For many, the appeal of these watch parties lies in the shared experience. “It was about 50 people. The vibe was very chill, and I felt like I was watching it with a group of friends,” said Emme Elon, a 21-year-old student from Talladega College, who attended a watch party at BrewDog in Atlanta. “People were just clapping at different moments.”
These events are particularly popular with Gen Z, who are not only drawn to the unfolding drama but also to the opportunity to connect with each other. Dahlia Maria, a 27-year-old esthetician from Orlando, shared how she and her boyfriend made watching the show a nightly ritual with friends. “Everyone was screaming at the same time. It’s a bonding experience,” she explained. “I don’t usually see them outside of holidays, so to get together on a weeknight and have it be around Love Island was really nice.”
Maria described another watch party at Fiction Bar, calling it “like a movie theater, but better,” emphasizing the camaraderie and excitement in the room. “People are screaming. People are shook to their core. They’re applauding like you just landed a plane,” she recalled. “It feels intentional, like everyone came to be in it together.”
Bridging the Gap for Gen Z
In a time when genuine in-person connections can feel scarce, the chaotic re-coupling and live voting elements of Love Island USA provide a reason to gather. The show includes real-time voting via a companion app, allowing fans to influence the outcome by voting on which contestants stay or leave. According to NBCU Media, the app has over 5 million registered users, with the July 8 episode receiving more than a million votes in just six minutes.
For viewers like Victoria Ruiz, a 23-year-old stylist from Atlanta, the voting adds an engaging layer to the viewing experience. “It just feels like we’re making a difference,” she stated. “But I think it’s fun to just vote for our favorite person.”
This season has not been without its controversies. Two contestants, Yulissa Escobar and Cierra Ortega, were removed after past social media posts emerged that contained racial slurs. Another contestant, Huda Mustafa, became a polarizing figure, attracting viewers who tuned in specifically to witness her dramatic moments.
Despite these challenges, Love Island USA remains a hit. Preliminary ratings from Nielsen indicate that the seventh season ranked as the most-streamed reality show for two consecutive weeks. The drama, twists, and betrayals have not only captivated audiences but also fostered a new kind of communal experience.
“More events like this would be great,” Elon remarked, highlighting how these gatherings fill a social gap for her generation. The show has become a platform for fans to meet and bond, with some viewers even using the watch parties as an opportunity to deepen their own romantic connections. “My boyfriend’s guy friends bring girls that they’re talking to, not necessarily in a relationship with yet, to our Love Island hangouts,” Maria noted.
As the season finale approaches, fans are already expressing anticipation for what comes next. “I definitely have this feeling of like, what now?” Maria said. “Like, what show will I watch now? Nothing can replace this. It’s something I’ll miss and look forward to next year.” The final episode is set to air on Sunday at 18:00 PT / 21:00 ET on Peacock, promising one last chance for fans to unite in their shared love for the series.
