On Monday’s episode of Love Island, Joey Essex claimed that not being smart was a "gift," leaving viewers amused. Joey Essex, 33, known for his stint on The Only Way Is Essex (TOWIE), entered the villa as the season's first bombshell and the show’s first-ever celebrity contestant. He quickly coupled up with Samantha Kenny, 26, who actively showed her admiration for Joey and his television career.
During the episode, Samantha questioned Joey about being labeled "ditzy" in the public eye. Joey stated that he had accepted his persona and viewed his lack of traditional intelligence as an advantage. Despite finishing school with low grades, Joey insisted he always did his best without wanting to be clever like others. Fans found the exchange humorous, with many sharing their reactions on social media.
Joey also discussed his family, praising his father, Donald Essex, who raised him and his sister, Frankie, following their mother Tina’s suicide in 2001. Tina struggled with depression and an illness known as candida. Joey expressed his admiration for his father for his upbringing and acknowledged the close bond with his sister, Frankie.
Meanwhile, Samantha expressed concerns about other girls' intentions towards Joey, suspecting they might be attracted to his celebrity status rather than his personality. Joey reassured her that he valued genuine affection over fame. However, fans remained skeptical of the relationship's authenticity, with some labeling Samantha as delusional on social media.