Shipwrecked - Cast press pack interviews
Category: Interview
Name: Harry
Age: 26
Location: London and the world
Occupation: Model
My Shipwrecked experience: Unbelievable
My personality: Enigmatic, fun and ruthless
Celebrity most like to be stranded with: Da Vinci
What made you want to go on Shipwrecked?
To be honest it is not something I would usually do. I literally had nothing to do and I just thought ‘f** it’. Who doesn’t want to be on the beach!!!
Had you watched it before?
I watched Shipwrecked back in the day and I have got a few mates who have been on it.
Why did they pick you?
I am a very enigmatic person!
What is your biggest claim to fame?
I wouldn’t say modelling is a claim to fame but I have had a pretty successful career for the last ten years, mixing in the right fame circles. Modelling has its ups and downs and I am dealing with the cards I was dealt with.
Have you ever been marooned on an island before?
I lived in Bali for four months. I often spend time away from home and I have actually only spent a month at home this year. Before I went, I didn’t tell that many people that I was going but, of the people I told, they thought it would be another adventure.
Did you have a game plan before you went in?
I head into everything open minded. I did think I would go in and be a little f**ker just because it is my nature.
Were you then? Did you cause mayhem?!
I was a bit more chilled than I thought I would be. You become friends with everyone and you bond together. I think I came across more mature than I actually am.
Were you surprised you were?
Yes a little bit.
What was the first night like?
It felt a little bit like a sitcom! When I got there it was a bit surreal. But it ended up being natural.
What skills did you bring to the camp?
I am definitely good at making fires! I don’t think I brought any skills but I was chilled on the island.
What luxury items did you bring?
A cricket set and trx ropes. I used them most days and so they were good choices.
Did you enjoy the experience?
I enjoyed the whole experience. I got on with all in my tribe. It made sense to get on with everyone.
Do you think they found you annoying?
I would like to think they didn’t find me annoying!
Did you want to win?
Let’s face it – nobody likes to lose. Winning is key in life and I wanted to embrace the experience as being something a bit different - which it was!
What did you miss the most?
Being able to eat what I wanted to eat
What was the hardest thing about being on Shipwrecked?
Nothing. I would go back in a heartbeat. Waking up to the sun every day and the sunset - I would happily live there. I made some good friends there.
Did you learn anything about yourself?
Yes how I become a dad to everyone! I stepped up to the plate to do chores.
What were your best and worst moments?
I enjoyed the whole thing. I don’t have a best or a worst moment. I think you should never have any regrets in life.
Were you looking to have a relationship?
Not a relationship no -maybe a bit of fun!
Have you had any holiday romances before?
If a one night stand counts as a romance then, yes, I have had them before!
Any plans for 2019?
I will probably move to America in 2019 at some point. I will ride the wave and see where it will go.
You have described your experience as unbelievable. Why?
Waking up before the sunrise and watching it go down…I would say ‘unbelievable’ is a good word to sum it all up.
Did you like the healthy eating regime on Shipwrecked?
I put weight on! I wasn’t as active as I usually am. There is no rush to do anything on the island whereas away from the island, you are in a rush.
Name: Liv
Age: 19
Location: Manchester
Occupation: Waitress
My Shipwrecked experience: Mad
My personality: Kind hearted, attitude problem and funny
Celebrity most like to be stranded with: Cardi B
Celebrity least like to be stranded with: Chanelle McCleary
Why did you apply to go on Shipwrecked?
I needed something different in my life. At the time, I didn’t know what to expect but I wanted to meet new people and to see what would happen.
Were you excited when you got picked?
Yes - but my mum and my Nan were nervous because they know I am hot-headed. And to be honest I am a bit hot-headed!
Why do you think you got picked?
I am different. I am from a council estate and I have never done anything like this before. I am a very strong person, I know who I am and what I am about. If I want something I will get it. They probably thought ‘here’s a young girl, she is 19, she can hold her own and so let’s throw her on the island and see what happens!’
Have you camped before?
The only time I have been away from my mum was when I went to Magaluf. I was 17. I went away for five days and I cried. I got really drunk and I kept phoning mum up to say ‘get me a plane, I can’t do it anymore’. Shipwrecked was completely out of my comfort zone.
Did you have a plan before you flew out to the Shipwrecked island?
I had a bit of a game plan but that completely changed when I got there. I thought everyone would be older and they would tell me what to do. I had my back up ready. When you watch a reality TV show, everyone is bi**hy but this was not like that at all.
What was it like when you arrived?
When I first got to the island I found it so surreal. It was like something out of a film or movie. The first night was my favourite night when we sat in the camp. It was then I realised I was actually on Shipwrecked!
Did you get on with people?
I always had everyone’s back. I think everyone loved me and they thought ‘look at this cocky 19-year-old!’ I think they thought I was funny, upfront and brutal. But I am 19 and I am from a council estate. That is what you get.
Who did you bond with?
Chris and Hollie. I did fancy Chris at first until I found out he was gay! Chris is like my big brother and we speak all the time.
What skills did you bring to the island?
I brought coconut rice to the island. We had rice there and I was the one who boiled it in coconut water.
What luxury item did you bring?
An inflatable unicorn!
Did you find the experience hard at times?
It was amazing and I would never change the experience. Having said that, sometimes being young and being away from my family did get hard. There were times when I wanted to pack it in and go home. But I stuck it out.
What did you miss most?
I think more than anything I missed my friends. I call my friends if I trip over a kerb, I call my friends if I see a fit boy and I call my friends if literally anything happens! I had to confide in people there.
What shocked you about Shipwrecked?
That it was hard. But it was weird how quickly I got close to people I wouldn’t normally come across.
What was your best moment?
Waking up each morning and looking out at the clear blue sea.
What was your worst moment?
Arguing with people. I was argumentative, I blew quite a few times but that is just me. People either had to like it or p*ss off!
Did you cry?
OMG I cried all the time! I am going to look so wet when it comes out! I experienced so many emotions – anger, upset, sadness and then also joy and happiness.
Did you have some humdinger rows then?
Yes I am not one to take any sh*t off anyone. If anyone says anything, I will pull them up on it.
Would you do anything differently then?
No. I would do everything the same.
Did you go there to win?
I am competitive and I did go in with the thought that I was going to smash it but when I got there, I realised this was more about family and who you were than winning something.
Did the experience change you?
I went in so angry and full of hate. I think it has made me so open-minded. Now when I am in an argument, I look at the other person’s viewpoint. I feel so much more mature now. I feel I have really grown up. It’s been such a positive experience. Don’t get me wrong though! I am still fiery at times!
Were you single when you went on to the island?
Yes and when some eye candy came in, it was nice to have a little look! There were two I thought I liked but when you are on an island, it is because they are the only ones there! You just want the attention. But single life is for me.
Were your family proud of you for sticking it out?
Yes. My mum and Nan have always been my number one supporters. They will go above and beyond for me.
Would you like to do some more TV?
Definitely. I wouldn’t want to be a reality TV star but everyone likes a bit of attention. I do anyway!
Why was the experience so ‘mad’ for you?
I can’t believe little young me actually went on an island with no Wi-Fi or phone! I don’t normally wash pots or clean because my mum and Nan do everything for me.
Has it spurred you on to do more travelling?
Yes. I don’t want to go to Magaluf or Ibiza. I would rather go to Thailand. It’s made me realise I can do things on my own.
Name: Tom
Age: 20
Location: Devon
Occupation: Studying industrial design at Loughborough University and training for the Marines
My Shipwrecked experience: Interesting
My personality: Stubborn, honest and loyal
Celebrity most like to be stranded with: Robert Downey Jr
Celebrity least like to be stranded with: Katie Hopkins
Why did you want to go on Shipwrecked?
I needed a bit of a getaway and it sounded good fun. I thought it would be a nice experience. I was a little taken aback when I got picked. I thought it was a bit of a hoax at first and then I saw the ticket to the Cook Islands and I thought ‘I don’t care if it is a hoax I am still going!’
Why do you think you got picked?
I have an old school mind-set and I am not materialistic compared to others my age.
What did your family and friends think?
They found it quite amusing and they thought it was quite funny to see me make a fool of myself!
Have you camped before?
Yeah I have done loads of outdoor stuff and I have spent a month in Borneo. It was a lot tamer on Shipwrecked. But there was a nice atmosphere, I had fun and I settled in well after the first day.
Did you find it easy to adapt to island life?
I absolutely loved the island way of life. I was at home with it all and I took it all in my stride.
What skills did you bring to the camp?
I wouldn’t say I am Gordon Ramsay but I can cook the basics. I am a bit more of a builder and that came in quite handy as a lot couldn’t.
Who did you bond with?
Kush. Stereotypically we wouldn’t be paired up as friends because I am this old school Devon guy with old values and he is a new half Indian guy from London who is into fashion. We are opposite sides of the world but he was absolutely brilliant.
Do you think the others found you annoying?
I may have come across as annoying. I was very democratic. I wasn’t into the arguments about the small things like who put the onions in the pot. I wouldn’t back anyone as I thought it was ridiculous and so I stepped back and let them argue. They did get annoyed I wouldn’t take a side but I found it quite pathetic.
What luxury items did you take in?
I took a mosquito net and a Gill net, which puts it across what I thought it would be like! They were very useful.
What surprised you about life on Shipwrecked?
I was quite overwhelmed about everyone being very emotional. Everyone was crying over a packet of crisps! I am not used to seeing people bawl their eyes out over anything.
Were you single when you went on Shipwrecked?
Yes I was.
Were you looking for a relationship?
No I was not. I don’t think anyone would find real love on a TV show to be honest.
What were your best moments?
Jumping into the water each morning to have a wash. It was beautiful and crystal clear.
And your worst moments?
Listening to the draining gossip about problems and them moaning about things.
What did you miss most?
Sport. I am an adrenaline junkie. I left when I was doing my sky diving course, I do a lot of skiing, cliff jumping, snow boarding and we do a lot of wakeboarding.
How did you find the food on the island?
I lost quite a lot of weight. I lost just under a stone. That is because I usually eat a lot of meat.
Would you like to do more TV?
No. I know some people will drift down that route but it is not one of my main motivations in life. I will enjoy watching some bits and cringe at others and once it is over; I will be a little relieved!
What plans do you have for 2019?
I am finishing my course and then I will wait to see if I get in the marines or not.
Name: Big T (Tula)
Age: 26
Location: London
Occupation: Part-time wig maker
My shipwrecked experience: Life changing
My personality: Caring, entertaining, competitive
Celebrity most like to be stranded with: Gemma Collins.
Celebrity least like to be stranded with: Kim Kardashian
Why did you apply to go on Shipwrecked?
This year was about being fearless and challenging myself in different ways including applying for a survival show! I wanted to test myself.
Were you excited when you got the call to say you had a place?
Oh my goodness I was shocked! I never thought they would pick me. I thought they would think I was too high maintenance.
Why did they pick you then?
They picked me because they thought I would be controversial. There was no one else like me on the island.
What did your family and friends think?
They were really worried. My friends almost cried and they said ‘you are not built for this’. They were worried.
How would they describe you?
Spontaneous, crazy, never on time, I love talking and I am quite lazy!
Did you go in with a game plan?
No actually I didn’t have one apart from being myself.
What was the first night like?
I had a massive fight with Liv and it was awful, I hated my first night. I thought ‘OMG is this what it is going to be like?. Liv didn’t like me from the word go. She heard my Chelsea accent and she thought ‘right I don’t like her’. I never normally argue and so it was a shock to the system.
What role did you play on the island?
I cooked for everyone, I looked after everyone and I was the caring one. I didn’t think I had a maternal instinct and so there you go!
Who did you bond with?
I can’t say one person as I have so much love for everyone.
Do you think you were annoying to live with?
Sometimes I was like ‘urgh’ about the cooking and some found that annoying. But I don’t think I was annoying apart from that.
What did you learn about yourself?
I learnt that I was a lot more spiritual and I had more patience than I realised. I am not as high maintenance as I thought I was too.
What was you best moment?
I made up a tribe dance routine. It was so cheesy and ridiculous but we did it, as we were a family.
And your worst?
My argument with Liv. I never have arguments and that unsettled me. I can count on one hand the number of arguments I have had in my life. I am always so softly spoken.
What luxury items did you take in?
OMG I bought a manicure and pedicure kit, which came in handy! I also took hair straighteners but I didn’t use them. It was the worst luxury item ever.
Have you camped before?
No! I did the Duke of Edinburgh when I was 15 but I do love my fluffy pillows and duvets. Being stripped from that was so tough. But it is good to push yourself out of your comfort zone.
What did you miss most?
Bread. I really missed a good old sarnie. I didn’t miss home because I was in paradise and in the most beautiful place on earth. I love city living but nothing can compare to that.
I didn’t miss social media. I really appreciated getting to know people without looking at your phone every five minutes.
Were you single when you went on Shipwrecked?
Yes pretty much. I was not looking for love on the island. I really hoped I didn’t fancy anyone on the island as I didn’t want to meet my dream guy stinking and smelling without all my wigs and my glam on!
Did you spot any good-looking guys?
Oh my gosh! Kush was like a younger brother but nothing happened. Tom is the best looking guy I have ever seen in my life.
Would you do anything differently if you returned?
I stayed true to myself 100 per cent. I honestly wouldn’t have done anything differently.
Has it changed you as a person?
Yes I don’t care about new trends and what is new in the fashion world. Now I am more back to basics.
How did you cope with the food diet on the island?
I actually lost a bit of weight. I lost about five kilos because I wasn’t snacking on donuts and ice cream in between meals like I normally do! I had never had corned beef in my life and now I am obsessed!
Is it true your family nicknamed you ‘Big T’ because you have small breasts?!
Yes that’s correct. Everyone calls me Big T. It’s really funny as when people want to be formal, they call me Big T and if they are chilled out, they call me T.
Would you like a career in TV?
I would love to have a career in TV. My ultimate goal is to do presenting and have my own talk show. I would also love to go on another adventure.
Have you made any plans for 2019?
I want to see what happens. I would love to have a boyfriend too. A boyfriend is definitely top of the list because it is about time. I have been single for a while.
Why did you shave your hair off before you went on Shipwrecked?
I was getting too attached to my hair. My life is not my hair. It was about stripping back. At first it was so scary but I got such a positive reaction. It felt so liberating and after Shipwrecked, I dyed it bright orange! I would never be that bold normally.
Name: Kalia
Age: 20
Location: Bedfordshire
Occupation: Model/work in a Chinese takeaway
My Shipwrecked experience: Life changing
My personality: Stubborn, honest, dry humour
Celebrity most like to be stranded with: Kanye West
Celebrity least like to be stranded with: Piers Morgan
We bet you couldn’t believe it then when you got picked?!
I really couldn’t believe it. I honestly thought it was a joke!
Why did they pick you?
I defy a lot of stereotypes. I am 5 foot 2, I didn’t go to University, I am British/Chinese, I play football and I am a bit different.
Had you been camping before?
I have done the V festival but that’s not the same! I have not been away from my family for such a long time before.
Did you feel nervous before you went in?
Yes. I was really nervous. I didn’t expect to be but I remember getting the flight details and thinking ‘oh my goodness me’! Reality sank in.
Did you have a plan before you went in?
I was going to be a bit more exaggerated because I was expecting massive characters. I thought they would be argumentative but that wasn’t the case at all. When I went in there, I remember one of the guys telling me to have no regrets. And that’s what I did the whole way.
What was the first night like?
It was really crazy! I thought we would have a few days to settle in but new members arrived the next day and that was overwhelming. I don’t like a lot of people and a strict schedule.
How did you fit in on the island?
At the beginning it was very tough for me. I didn’t like to lick their ar*e and I wanted to go at my own pace. If you start talking to everyone, it exposes you to getting hurt.
Did you get into it more?
Yes I did. But the main thing for me was that the people on my island I wouldn’t want to hang out with back at home. They did not have the same humour. Slowly as time went on, people got to know me. By the end, I really do believe I was with the right people.
Who did you bond with?
I remember T arriving. She had this strong Chelsea accent and she said ‘oh the toilets are disgusting, I need canapés’. But later on, we were doing make up together and I got to know her. We had so many common interests in the end
What skills did you bring to the island?
I felt quite useless at the beginning but after a while, we started to get into the cooking and I got really inventive. I hated cooking before but on the island, it became like a therapy for me. It was a break from everything else.
Did you lose weight whilst on Shipwrecked?
Oh my goodness me! I put on weight! I don’t know how much but I remember I had a pair of boyfriend jeans that were meant to be baggy. When I put them back on they were so tight.
What luxury items did you take with you?
A snorkel and a football. They were pretty useless!
Did you find it hard to get to know people?
Yes. When we had new arrivals, you had to entertain them and create a bond. I am not really comfortable with it. I don’t force myself on people I don’t know. I didn’t like the whole thing of everyone barging in saying ‘oh gosh that’s so amazing’. It was forced conversation.
Do you think they found you annoying?
At one point, I think people from my own tribe thought I was annoying. I had this whole thing of me feeling lost. I didn’t know if I wanted to stay or be on the other island. I couldn’t make up my mind and I think they got a bit annoyed.
What did you learn about yourself?
I realised that sometimes you need to take a step back and sit on the fence. I did open up to a few people at the end.
Would you do anything differently?
Knowing I was myself, maybe I would play it completely fake to see what it is like!
Were you single when you went on Shipwrecked?
Yes. I wasn’t looking for anyone. I had come out of a relationship four weeks before I went on the show and I was just enjoying being single because I had been in a relationships since I was 16.
Did you have fun on the island?!
Yes it was really good and I did meet someone. The best thing was we started off as really close friends. We spoke about everything and I helped him a lot. He was a deeper person than a lot people may have thought.
What was your favourite moment?
Sleeping out in the middle of night and looking at the sea.
And your least favourite?
I had had an argument near the end and I couldn’t compose myself because I was shaking so much.
And finally, would you like to do more TV?
I would love to go into TV. I would love to be in EastEnders and I am going to see what happens. I don’t want to limit myself. I want to do anything and everything. I want to be different to how other reality TV stars do it.
Name: Emma
Age: 21
Location: Rutland
Occupation: Publishing and English graduate
My Shipwrecked experience: Emotional
My personality: Opinionated, unapologetic, funny
Celebrity most like to be stranded with: Dwight Schrute
Celebrity least like to be stranded with: Donald Trump
Why did you want to go on Shipwrecked?
I was in the library with my friends and I thought it was a bit of a joke, as I never thought I would get in! I watched it when I was younger and I was obsessed with it. I thought ‘why not’.
Could you believe it then when you got a place?
I thought it was a prank! My family and friends were really excited and just as shocked as I was!
Why do you think you got picked?
I am still trying to figure that out myself! I think that I am quite confident in who I am as a person and I have got opinions. In this social climate, it is important to have women who have opinions and use their voice.
Were you nervous?
I was absolutely terrified about what lay ahead. I was completely jetting into the unknown and I didn’t know what to expect. Yes I had watched it but it is very different to actually being on it!
Had you done anything like this before?
When I was 17 I spent a month in Zambia and I camped then but it wasn’t nearly as intense as this and I was with friends. And there were no TV cameras!
Did you have a secret plan before entering?
I wanted to play it by ear. I adapt quite well. I just hoped there would be one person who I really got on with.
So what were the first 24 hours like?
It feels like such a blur now. I remember everyone was so friendly and it reminded me of my first day at school. Everyone was slightly terrified but really nice to each other. I remember sleeping next to Tom and he had this really over the top mosquito net! He was snoring so loudly and I kept kicking him. I wanted to start as we meant to go on.
What luxury items did you take?
I took a badminton set and a hammock. I think I took the best ones. It was amazing and so nice to have the hammock. It was good to chill out in.
Did you fit into the island life?
I think so. Obviously it was intense and really hard. I was quite good around new people. I made them laugh. It was really helpful the other cast were so nice.
What skills did you bring to Shipwrecked?
I am quite organised but I was also good with people. When new arrivals came along, I wasn’t afraid to get to know them, I am so terrified of people being left out, I go the extra way to make sure everyone is included. My University life put me in good stead.
Who did you bond with?
Mostly Kush. We still chat every day.
Do you think they found you annoying?
OMG they probably found me so irritating! They probably thought I was opinionated. The thing for me is you are family. If I spent two months with my big sister, we would tear each other’s hair out.
Did emotions run high?
I think emotions ran so high. It was the intensity of the environment and the smallest thing could mean the biggest deal! I only got into one proper argument and looking back now, it seemed so ridiculous! But at the time it was the biggest deal ever.
What surprised you about life on the island?
I was actually really surprised how quickly I adapted. I loved being outside. Being a bit grubby was right up my street and I got to do it for real.
What were your favourite moments?
I loved the day-to-day stuff of us all going and having a wash in the sea. Swimming in the Pacific Ocean is the thing that I miss the most.
What was the worst moment?
It is weird living 24 hours a day with such a diverse group of people. Half the people I lived with are not like my friends at home. It can be quite difficult to adjust with people with different personalities and opinions. You have to take a step back.
What did you miss most?
I didn’t miss social media. I loved being away from it. It was a detox. It was nice to go back to basics and get to know people without them not spending half the time on the phone. I really missed my best friend a lot. When it got a bit tough, it was quite difficult.
Would you do anything differently if you returned?
I think I probably wouldn’t take it so seriously. At the time, everything seemed such a big deal, which is funny now. I wish I had been a bit sillier.
Were you single when you went on Shipwrecked?
I was dating and I was not looking to have a relationship on the island. I wanted my experience to be about figuring my own stuff out about who I was. I didn’t want to take on another person. My experience was never about meeting someone.
How did you find the Shipwrecked diet?
Oh my god I put on weight 100 per cent! But I didn’t care! I kept eating. It was something to do and we were hungry the whole time. As soon as we got more food in, it was absolute carnage!
Has this experience changed you as a person?
Definitely. In that kind of environment, there is no bitchiness, as you have to talk about it to their face. It makes you more self-confident when things get a bit tough! I am stronger as a person now and I definitely feel a lot more capable.
Would you like to do more TV?
Definitely. I have always loved acting and I would love to do some stuff like that. I would also love to do presenting. Everything about it was amazing. I am so so happy I did Shipwrecked.
And finally, did you have lots of debates on the island given you are quite opinionated?
I didn’t need to talk about it as much as I thought I would! Everyone was so in tune. There was no need to have big political debate as everyone was on the same page, which was nice.
Name: Hollie
Age: 24
Location: Bromley
Occupation: Social media influencer
My Shipwrecked experience: Incredible
My personality: Caring, kind and outgoing
Celebrity most like to be stranded with: I am not fussed about celebrities. I would rather be with my friends!
Celebrity least like to be stranded with: Anyone who moans
Why did you want to go on Shipwrecked?
My friends told me to do it. I also thought it would be interesting to see what would come of it. When else would I be able to live on an island?! I was so excited when they picked me and it didn’t sink in for a while.
Why did they pick you?
I don’t know really why I was picked!
Have you ever camped?
No I have never experienced camping. After Shipwrecked, I realised that I quite enjoyed being at one with nature.
What were you most worried about before you flew out?
I guess I was worried about how I would deal with animals and bugs. But once you get on the island, you do get on with it. For me, the experience was good because you faced your fears.
Were you nervous when you arrived?
I wasn’t nervous on the first night. But I was quite reserved as I found it overwhelming. You are in a different environment. What was nice is that everyone bonded so quickly. As we were all in the same position, we all felt exactly the same. Everyone made friends quickly.
Who did you bond most with?
It changed as time progressed. Initially my first couple of days I really bonded with Kush.
How did you fit in on the island?
I did adapt really quickly. Even at home, I am not one to care about my hair and make-up. I am quite laid back and so when it came to that side of it, I adapted really quickly. I guess you just find your role within the island.
What was your role then?
I was the person who people came to talk to if they felt down and I looked after everything in the camp.
What were your luxury items?
A mirror and coffee.
What was your best moment on Shipwrecked?
It’s so hard to pick moments. I loved it at the end of the day when we sat on the rocks and watched the sunset whilst talking about how we felt. We talked about our home and family. Those moments stuck out because we all really bonded together.
Did you have any bad moments?
When the beach parties happened. Every three days you were so worried that you might get sent home. Nobody wanted to go home. That was the only bad bit about Shipwrecked.
Did you find life on the island hard?
I thought it was going to be harder than it was. As everyone chipped in and helped each other out, it made it so much easier. I enjoyed the simpler life. I never thought I would start a fire and I did it. I loved it.
How did you find the Shipwrecked diet?
I thought I would lose weight but we had so many carbs like rice and pasta every day. I didn’t put any weight on but I definitely didn’t lose any either.
Did you have any rows?
I managed to avoid all the arguments. All the dramas went over my head. I didn’t feel any tension because I was oblivious to it all.
Did you learn anything about yourself?
I knew who I was before I went on the island. It was nice to be myself and I felt that I was helping the other islanders discover who they were.
What did you miss most?
My dog.
Would you do anything differently if you returned?
I would be the same. I did what I felt was right at the time. If you do that then you are not going to regret anything.
Were you single when you went on the island?
Yes I was.
Were you looking to have a relationship?
I wasn’t looking for a relationship but I always said if there was someone on the island I got on with, then I would go for it.
And so did you meet anyone nice?
I did! I am still with them.
Ahh so you found love on Shipwrecked?
I wouldn’t say it is love just yet but it is really nice to share an experience like that with someone.
Have you changed as a person?
No but I did appreciate the time on the island a lot. It’s made me realise we don’t need social media and a phone all the time. Life is so much less stressful without phones.
That’s interesting given you do work as a social media influencer!
I didn’t miss having a phone. I missed not having a camera and being able to capture moments. As I didn’t have a phone, I could focus on myself so much more. My memories are so much clearer because I wasn’t looking at anything through a mobile phone. I was looking at everything through my eyes. It was an amazing experience.
Would you like to do more TV?
I don’t know if I would do another reality show. The reason I went on Shipwrecked is it was different. But you don’t know what is going to happen and I am very open-minded.
Do you have any goals for 2019?
I am going to see what happens. I love doing my modelling and I guess I will carry on with that but do more of it.
Name: Kush
Age: 26
Location: London
Occupation: Recruitment manager
My Shipwrecked experience: Divine
My personality: Eclectic, outgoing and energising
Celebrity most like to be stranded with: Olly Alexander from Years & Years
Celebrity least like to be stranded with: Any footballer.
Why did you want to apply for Shipwrecked?
I have always wanted to go travelling. But I needed a reason to go travelling. I did not want to go travelling for the sake of it. I was over the moon when they picked me. I have never ever done anything like this before.
Why do you think you were picked?
I am a bit quirky, different and crazy. I am quite opinionated but in a good way. I am also open-minded and I do think you need to be when you go in an environment like that. You have to go with the flow. You have to think ‘f**k it let’s just do it’.
How did you feel before you flew out?
I was a mix of nerves and excitement beforehand. I didn’t know if I was going to be thrown into a group of people I didn’t like or be in a situation where they wouldn’t like me. I also didn’t know if I would miss my home comforts and I didn’t know what to expect. It’s like going into the blind.
Did you have a plan beforehand?
I call myself the director of fun! I told myself to be happy. I didn’t want to sell myself short. I hope I don’t come across as boring. Then I would be upset!
So what were your first 24 hours like?
It was so surreal and instantly, I bonded with people. I can still remember waking up to that view and it’s amazing how it becomes your home after just 24 hours. I also became one of those people I hated (watching) on reality TV! You do, become so close so quickly and everything gets heightened. It is all you focus on. The smallest of things become big deals. I found myself getting worked up over things that I didn’t need to be.
Did you find it easy to adapt?
I did find it easy to fit in. I love meeting new people and getting to know their quirks and non-quirks. That said I felt overwhelmed by the end because it becomes exhausting. I found I could not physically befriend any more people simply as it was so exhausting - even though that sounds so ridiculous!
Who did you bond with?
Tom and Emma. We became best friends. Chris was the other gay guy and we had mutual interests. He was such a kind-hearted boy. And Hollie.
What skills did you bring to the camp?
I brought style and fun to it all. Speaking to my tribe, they said I was the glue in camp. I kept morale up. I made sure the camp was clean and everyone interacted. I am quite high energy and I was able to keep morale up.
Did they find you annoying at all?
Probably. It is one of those things where you have an annoying little brother and you love them for who they are. They do annoy the hell out of you but when they are not there, you miss them. They are like brothers and sisters. But I hope I don’t come across as annoying when I watch it.
Did you row?
I avoided most arguments. One guy annoyed me on my last day and I did not want to take any more sh*t. One thing I learned was to have a backbone. You learn you don’t always have to agree with them.
Would you act differently if you could return?
I would probably care less about what people thought of me a bit more. I do wear my heart on the sleeve. I am always making sure everyone is feeling ok and I have realised it is ok to not be like that all the time.
What were your luxury items?
Some fairy lights and a pillow. Everyone laughed I had brought along fairy lights but they made our dinner table, swing and bathroom glow.
What did you miss most?
Music. I could sing all day but when someone brought a guitar, it made me so happy.
What were your best moments?
I had so many. Starting my first fire. It only took me an hour but no biggie!
Who did you bond with?
I love Tom to bits. He is like a brother.
And your worst moment?
When I had an argument with someone near the end and that person made me feel bad about myself.
Were you single when you arrived on Shipwrecked?
Yes and I was so open to finding someone. But I am very picky! When you are out there, you are so focused about growing in yourself that you almost think you don’t want anyone.
Have you changed as a person?
I have grown up a lot. I know what I want in life and I am going to do it. It has made me take life by the horns and get on with it. I had such a great time and even with the low points, you do learn to appreciate them. You appreciate everything. I have stayed in touch with quite a lot of them.
Would you like to do more TV?
I would like to do presenting but realistically, I want to tour the world with my music. I would like to play at Madison Garden.
Speaking of music, you have had a big claim to fame before haven’t you?
Yes! Simon Fuller and Geri Halliwell signed me and my band (to their management label) at the age of 17. It was amazing. I thought my life was made. . I used to go to Geri’s house to rehearse. She was really nice, crazy fun and I got to hang out with her. But one of our band members left and so we disbanded. That experience made me a bit bitter. Now I take everything with a pinch of salt. Anyone can dangle something in your face but I have learned it can all be taken away from you.
Are you hoping to sign another deal like that again after Shipwrecked?
No. I am going to have control. I want a fun and quirky management team.
Name: Chris
Age: 24
Location: London
Occupation: CEO of Strawberries and Creem Events
My Shipwrecked experience: Savage
My personality: Caring, understanding and fun
Celebrity most like to be stranded with: Morgan Freeman
Celebrity least like to be stranded with: Katie Hopkins
Why did you want to go on Shipwrecked?
I wanted a break from everything and I wanted to get out of London and do something really random! It came at exactly the right time. I hadn’t watched the show before but I had heard really good things about the show. I think my dad probably stopped me watching it. It was not PG at the time! A friend of mine also thought it would be good for me.
Did you feel excited to be chosen?
Yes I had just landed in Spain on a family holiday when I heard I had got in. I then flew back and two days later; I flew to the island!
Why did they pick you?
I look very different in my appearance and the role I played on the island was as a mediator. I think they needed someone like that. I did sort out a lot of issues. I was the ‘go to’ person if they had a problem. If people were arguing, I sorted it out.
Did you think you would be the mediator before you went in then?
Yes it is one of my strengths to make people see each viewpoint. I knew I would be good at that. I played to my strengths.
What were the first 24 hours like?
The first 24 hours were surreal. I remember meeting Tom, Kalia and Kush and the first day didn’t seem real with all the cameras and people around. I was like dreamland for the first 24 hours until I came to my senses!
What luxury items did you take?
Hair clippers. They were amazing. I also took a drum, which was great.
Did you adapt quickly to island life?
It took me a few days to feel comfortable in there. To be one of the first on the show wasn’t easy. I found it different but after that I was fine.
Do you think the others ever thought you were annoying?
I don’t know about annoying. I was trying not to be the annoying person! But I didn’t do the gym as much as everyone else!
Did you row with the others?
I had an argument with one girl who ended up lying to us. That was the only real one I had.
What was your best moment?
Sitting around the fire and chatting. We were there for each other.
Who did you bond with?
I got on really well with Hollie. Then someone else had a bit of a personal impact on me…
Ooh that sounds interesting! Were you single when you went on Shipwrecked?
Yes I was completely. I wasn’t looking for a relationship because I had almost given up on the idea. But I hit it off with one guy. We are still seeing each other. We are not officially together but as we were together every day out there, it was intense!
Sadly your mum died before you went on Shipwrecked. Did being out on an island help you?
Being on the Shipwrecked island was amazing therapy. She died four months before I went and while I was out there, I felt I was so close to her. It did help my grieving process.
Is there anything else tough you found about island life?
There were a lot of new people coming on the island and you made connections with them. To then see those people go was difficult. But it became a process by the end and it was interesting meeting new people.
What did the experience teach you?
I learnt to enjoy my company a lot. Since returning, I have not taken my phone out all the time because I now enjoy having time to myself. That aspect was really good.
Have you changed as a person?
Yes I think I have a little bit. It had such a big impact and I loved it so much. I wouldn’t change the experience for the world. I had such a great time and we all got on so well.
Has it made you vow to do any other new things?
I would like to do some more TV. I wouldn’t change my job in the world but it would be nice to do something different. I would love to do more travelling too.
Is there anything you would do differently if you returned?
I might be ballsier. Sometimes I held back on the island. I think I would speak my mind a bit more. But I didn’t get bored at all. We had days off until the new arrivals came and I saw it as a time to make the most of the opportunity. It was such a beautiful place. I was in my element out there.
ENDS