Laura Whitmore dismisses Love Island racism claims

Laura Whitmore has dismissed racism claims made against \'Love Island\'.

The ITV2 dating show came under fire after hiring the television presenter for the role of host instead of choosing to diversify with a person of colour, but the 34-year-old star - who was picked over Rochelle Humes, Maya Jama and Vick Hope - insisted "everyone should have equal opportunities" regardless of the colour of their skin.

Speaking to The Sun\'s Bizarre TV Column, she said: "I think all of them are brilliant hosts. And I\'m friends with everyone. I think the most important thing is for everyone to be in the room and everyone to have an opportunity.

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"It\'s the same when it comes to the gender pay gap. I just think it comes down to you should get paid what you\'re worth. It doesn\'t matter what your gender is, what your race is, everyone is equal and everyone should have equal opportunity."

Laura - whose boyfriend Iain Stirling narrates the programme - was named as the new presenter last month (20.12.19) after Caroline Flack stepped down from the role following assault charges, and she will front the first-ever winter edition set to air on Sunday night (12.01.20).

However, the blonde beauty admitted she wouldn\'t have thrown her name in the hat if it wasn\'t for her beau.

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She added: "I don\'t think I would do. I think I\'d probably spend the whole time sleeping.

"Like anytime I go away on a girls\' holiday, I sleep all day. Nobody wants to see that."

The star previously thanked bosses for picking her for the role, and revealed her excitement at being given the opportunity.

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She said in a statement at the time: "To say I\'m excited to be heading to Cape Town to host \'Love Island\', the biggest show on television, is an understatement.

"I want to thank ITV for trusting me at the helm of this huge show. I wish it was in better circumstances; Caroline is a brilliant host and also a friend.

"We\'ve spoken a lot in the last few days since she stepped down. She has been very kind to me and strongly pushed me for this role.

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"I\'ve watched her host every series and know I have big boots to fill. I will try and do it justice."