Amber and Greg: a relationship we can all get behind

I will admit I was shocked by the Amber and Greg win on Love Island. I expected Molly mae and Tommy to be crowned, I think many of us did.

The fact that Amber and Greg emerged as the viewers' favourites, is testament to everyone's desire to be hopeful about relationships and second chances at love for good people.

On the show Amber won our hearts with her self confidence and maturity. She is only 21 but she knows herself and what she is worth. This was clear in her romantic interactions and her friendships with the other contestants. She stuck up for herself and others. She coped with being treated dreadfully with grace.

As a mixed race woman she had to deal with the stereotypes (as angry and emotional) which were put on her by some of the audience and, at times, other contestants (Sherif apparently used a slur to describe her) making her victory even sweeter.

Greg was in the villa less than two weeks but clearly the audience saw him as someone finally worthy as their Queen Amber. He was respectful, loyal to Amber, understanding of the Michael situation, empathetic and stayed out of the “ladiness” that tripped up so many of the other boys. With so many of the other boys they clearly were desperate to impress the other boys e.g. Anton and Tom, Greg was above all that and focussed on Amber.

Greg and Ovie give me hope for the men of this generation, they are compassionate, respectful and self ensured. Ovie and Amber's friendship warmed my cynical heart.

After seven weeks of twists and turns, I am glad Love Island has rewarded a relationship with respect at its core.

I will miss you Love Island, see you next year!

If you would like to re-live the highs and lows please check out the rest of my Love Island blog series!