Ariana Madix’s hosting was, undeniably, one of the reasons Love Island USA became a massive hit this year. Previously, Ariana’s passion for the franchise led to a series of appearances on Love Island USA Season 5 and Love Island Games. It was clear from those cameos that she was born to host full-time.
Even still, Ariana exceeded all expectations. She was such a great host that her fanbase keeps growing and growing. You could tell that hosting Love Island USA is her dream job, and that she had the time of her life. It was impossible not to be happy for her. As the host, Ariana’s enthusiasm, positive energy, megawatt charisma, and lovable personality helped make Season 6 the best one yet.
We’re gonna miss this season for many reasons, and Ariana is one of them. While we wait for the August 19th reunion, let’s look back at our favorite moments of Ariana’s hosting.
Ariana Madix’s hosting shined from day one of Love Island USA Season 6
From the opening lip sync montage to the cliffhanger ending, Ariana slayed the LI USA premiere. Looking back, it was a preview of what she’d bring as host all season long. She rocked sexy, jaw-dropping outfits, made witty asides in the silly game, kept everyone on their toes, and provided big sister support to the girls. Her excitement level matched the Islanders, which made the episode a joy to watch. If she had any first-day jitters, it didn’t come across on screen. Instead, it felt like she already hosted for years.
Ariana Madix cuts through the chaos on Love Island USA
The Love Island USA Season 6 cast was too chaotic to sit through recouplings and eliminations without getting into screaming matches. Thankfully, Ariana knew how to handle them and get things back on track. She’d ask clarifying questions, give contestants the chance to say their piece and check in on how individual Islanders were feeling.
When the girls chose to send Andrea Carmona home, all hell broke loose. Rob Rausch threatened to leave too (cue Leah Kateb mocking, “Now, you’re sending THREE home”). That made Rob’s BFF Aaron Evans lose it and lash out at the girls. Using her years of experience as the only adult in the room on VPR, Ariana managed to curb the chaos. She also called Rob on his bluff.
Ariana calls out the Casa Amor antics
The Casa Amor recoupling ceremony was some of the best TV all year. And Ariana guided the way beautifully. The whole episode was about men realizing their actions have consequences. As she did all season, Ariana looked out for the girls. After all, she knows a thing or two about getting your heart broken on TV.
When Aaron avoided answering Kaylor Martin’s questions until after the recoupling, Ariana fired back, “I’ve got all the time in the world.” Then, as Aaron sat down next to Kaylor, she deadpanned, “Maybe switch sweats.” She also asked Kaylor’s bestie, Liv Walker, to weigh in. And she hilariously reminded Miguel Harichi of who he was coupled up with.
When Kenny Rodriguez recoupled, JaNa Craig asked “Ari” to get her suitcase, showing the familiarity and trust between Ariana and the contestants. Also, in a truly adorable moment, viewers caught Ariana in the background cheering and wiping away tears at Kendall Washington and Nicole Jacky’s romantic reunion.
Ariana is a girl’s girl
Liv Walker’s elimination was one of the most emotional days in the villa. While she didn’t find a romantic connection, Liv found love in her close friendship with the girls. She even called them her “sisters for life.”
Before Liv left the villa, Ariana took a moment to praise the sisterhood that formed around her. Echoing the audience, she told the women that watching their friendships grow was a highlight of her summer. Later that night, to lighten up the mood, Ariana snuck back into the villa to announce bombshell Harrison’s arrival.
Audiences fell more in love with Ariana thanks to her unwavering support and love for the girls on and off the show. Week after week, she also provided excellent commentary on Aftersun and in podcast appearances. In some ways, she acted as a viewer surrogate. It was refreshing to hear the host push back on toxic narratives and unfair double standards.
Ariana’s Love Island USA finale feels
All season long, it was clear how much Ariana cared about the contestants. In the Love Island USA finale, she was genuinely emotional, and beaming with pride and happiness. Like the audience at home, she was invested in all of their journeys. Speaking on behalf of viewers, she let the Islanders know how much America loves them.
Sometimes, the host can feel like an awkward bystander. Not the case with Ariana, who organically joined in to celebrate Serena Page and Kordell Beckham’s win. Both the finale and the post-show interviews display the supportive dynamic and easy rapport Ariana developed with the finalists. She did become the big sister figure she aimed to be.
Of course, Ariana had one more surprise up her sleeve. She’ll host a reunion special, which will premiere on August 19. And we’d bet Love Island USA’s $100k prize money on Ariana hosting Season 7 as well.
TELL US – WHAT WAS YOUR FAVORITE MOMENT OF ARIANA HOSTING LOVE ISLAND USA SEASON 6? ARE YOU EXCITED FOR THE REUNION?
