Virgin Island inundates Channel 4 with applications for second season after hit

Channel 4's controversial reality series Virgin Island has been flooded with applications for its second season, the network confirmed. The show followed a group of adult virgins aged 22 to 30 who traveled to a tropical island to explore their sexuality under the guidance of trained intimacy and sex coaches, with the option to have sex with a professional at the end of the program.

An insider cited by The Sun said that when Virgin Island was first advertised last year, there was uncertainty about what it was or whether it was a joke. Yet, the content of the series reportedly boosted interest, especially among younger viewers, and the response helped fuel an unusually high demand to join the cast for a possible second run. The series’ premise quickly became a talking point and a magnet for viewers seeking bold, topical TV.

Only one participant, Dave, was deemed ready to lose his virginity during the original run. He has since gone on to find love in the real world about a year after filming, describing the experience as a confidence-boosting TV show. In referencing his current relationship, he said of his girlfriend, who watched some of the episodes, that it was challenging at times to watch a partner with someone else, even if it happened long ago.

The series went beyond a provocative premise to become a major ratings event for Channel 4. It was the network's biggest streaming hit across both scripted and unscripted programming this year, averaging about 1.4 million viewers per episode. TV boss Jonah Weston defended the show, calling it a bold, warm, and well-intentioned project and hinting that season 2 would be even more ambitious: "Watch out for season 2 which will be bigger and bolder than ever." An insider reiterated that the initial marketing and concept drew a strong response, with many viewers eager to see how the participants navigated their journeys.

Dave, the successful contestant who emerged with a personal breakthrough, urged others to consider applying. He said the island experience was life-changing in terms of confidence and personal growth, and he praised the experts and production team for providing a safe, secure environment. He added that his ultimate aim on the show was achieved and expressed excitement for future participants to embark on a similar journey: "I would wholly encourage anyone with enough courage and resilience to apply, it has completely changed my life."

Channel 4 has announced that the new series will be filmed this year and is scheduled to hit screens in 2027, continuing the network's one-of-a-kind approach to reality television. The renewed interest in Virgin Island comes amid ongoing debates about the boundaries of dating and intimacy programming, with producers emphasizing that the show sought to address real relationships, personal growth, and consent with professional guidance throughout the process.