New Love Island contestant Ope may be preparing to turn heads in the villa, but the West End performer is no stranger to the spotlight after previously appearing on some of the UK’s biggest primetime television shows. The 27-year-old has been confirmed as one of this year’s hot new Islanders, and fans were quick to discover that he has already built up an impressive entertainment CV before joining the hit ITV dating show.

Last year, Ope appeared on BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing during a special group performance. The talented dancer joined Sarah Hadland and a troupe of performers for an energetic routine to Popular from the smash-hit musical Wicked.

In clips shared to his Instagram account, Ope could be seen performing in a bright neon pink outfit while dancing enthusiastically alongside the cast. At the time, he captioned the post: “Had an amazing time dancing on Strictly.”

But that wasn’t his only major TV appearance. Ope also featured in the 2024 finale of Ant and Dec’s Saturday Night Takeaway, performing in a large-scale musical number alongside Dec, Oti Mabuse and Ashley Roberts.

Reflecting on the opportunity, he wrote on social media: “What a blessing to be part of such an iconic show.”

Now, the performer is swapping the stage for the Love Island villa — and he’s already made it clear he plans to stand out from the crowd.

Speaking ahead of the new series, Ope revealed he has no intention of playing it safe when it comes to finding romance.

“I always go after what I want,” he explained. “I think making someone laugh is the quickest way to connect with them.”

The confident singleton also said he believes his personality will help him thrive in the villa environment.

“My goal is to make people feel relaxed and comfortable around me,” he said. “Once that happens, everything flows naturally.”

Ope added that competition from the other boys doesn’t concern him in the slightest.

“I’m very secure in who I am,” he shared. “I’m confident in my looks, my humour and my energy. If someone connects better with another person, I won’t take it personally.”

The new Islander will enter the villa alongside a fresh batch of contestants including DJ and quantity surveyor Robyn, student Mica, business owner Lorenzo and primary school teacher Sean.