Lucinda Strafford and Mert Okatan have announced their split following a brief romance that began during Love Island Games. The couple faced challenges due to language barriers, leading to their breakup just before Lucinda joined Love Island: All Stars.
Lucinda Strafford’s Journey in Love Island
Lucinda first appeared on the seventh series of ITV2’s Love Island in 2021. She later participated in the fifth series of Love Island Australia in 2023. In 2025, she won the second series of Love Island Games, where she teamed up with Isaiah ‘Zac’ Campbell and took home a remarkable prize of $125,000.
Romance with Mert Okatan
Lucinda formed a connection with Mert Okatan during Love Island Games. The two were paired for a week before Mert exited the show. Afterward, they maintained a relationship off-screen but ultimately parted ways.
Reasons for the Split
- Language Barriers: Lucinda described difficulties in communication with Mert, stating that he struggled with English.
- Need for Connection: Lucinda expressed a desire for deeper conversations, which were challenging due to their linguistic differences.
Social Media and Public Reactions
In December 2022, Lucinda and Mert both unfollowed each other on social media and deleted pictures from their accounts. Lucinda later discussed the breakup on Ami Charlize’s Private Story podcast, emphasizing her sadness over the situation.
Mert Okatan’s Response
Mert has been vocal about the ongoing season of Love Island: All Stars. He criticized Lucinda’s actions in the villa, particularly her budding relationship with Sean Stone, calling her behavior “childish.” Mert has also questioned the authenticity of Lucinda and Sean’s connection.
Mert’s Controversial Announcement
Recently, Mert created buzz online by claiming he would join Love Island: All Stars in South Africa. He shared a selfie implying he was a new contestant, but sources indicated that this was misleading and that he would not be entering the villa.
Current Status of Love Island: All Stars
Love Island: All Stars is currently airing from Sunday to Friday on ITV2 and ITVX at 9 PM. The audience remains intrigued by the dynamics among contestants, especially in light of Mert’s previous relationship with Lucinda.
