The beloved Love Island duo, Molly Smith and Tom Clare, have come to the rescue of Casey O'Gorman, after Liam Reardon took a potshot at his multiple appearances on the reality show. Casey and Gabby Allen recently secured the coveted title of winners in this year's ITV spin-off, Love Island: All Stars, following in the footsteps of Molly and Tom, who themselves triumphed in the previous edition.
Over the years, fans have often speculated that contestants on Love Island are less interested in finding love and more in seeking fame. This sentiment was echoed by Liam, who accused Casey of joining the show three times solely for "clout" or influence.
Casey first graced the screens of Love Island during its ninth season in 2023 and later participated in both All-Stars spin-offs. However, Molly and Tom have stood firm in their support of Casey, heaping praise on his bond with Gabby in an exclusive interview with The Sun.
"He's constantly been yearning for a girlfriend – every time we're around him, he expresses his desire to have one," began Molly. "So, if you're given another chance to appear on a dating show, and it presents an opportunity to meet someone special, turning it down would be rather foolish in my opinion. I can't fault him for that."
She further added that Gabby was "gorgeous" and that their friendship had blossomed, mirroring the close bond shared by Casey and Tom.
"He's a stand-up guy with a heart of gold, and Gabby definitely brings out the best in him," chimed in Tom.
Meanwhile, Liam took a swipe at Casey during a podcast with his girlfriend, Millie Court, claiming that he had repeatedly entered the Love Island villa solely for "clout."
"What bugged me in the game was when they asked, 'Who's here for clout?' Everyone got defensive," Liam said. "Every single person is there for clout. Why else would you want to appear on one of the biggest TV shows?"
Millie argued that Liam himself was seeking "clout" when he first entered the show, acknowledging that all contestants are aware they're joining a major television sensation.
Liam then singled out Casey, saying, "Casey, I like you; I think you're great. But you've been on Love Island three times and even starred on Made in Chelsea. If you're saying you're not in it for clout, come on."
Casey has yet to respond to Liam's comments, who won the seventh season of Love Island alongside Millie in 2021.
Catch Love Island on ITV2 and stream it on ITVX.
