Lucy Benjamin, known for her role as Lisa Fowler on EastEnders, has taken a firm stance on Love Island, banning her teenage daughters from watching the popular dating show. The 53-year-old actress, a mother to Bessie Jo (16) and Rosie (12) with husband Richard Taggart, expressed concerns about the negative messages portrayed on the show.
In an interview with the Mirror, Lucy explained her decision, saying, “I’ve got two daughters, a 12-year-old and a 16-year-old. So Love Island isn’t on in our house. It doesn’t sit comfortably with me. It’s kids making out on TV, and there’s kind of this beautiful body image persona. Everyone looks like film stars. I don’t think it puts out the right message.”
She further expressed her reservations about reality TV, emphasising the importance of caring for the participants who are often thrust into the spotlight from obscurity. Lucy stated, “I think we have to be careful with reality TV to look after those taking part. It’s picking people out of obscurity and throwing them into the limelight.”
Lucy also revealed that she isn’t particularly keen on her daughters pursuing acting careers. Recognising the challenges of the profession, she said, “I don’t even particularly want my girls being actors. It’s such a hard profession. I’d be careful about them going into acting or reality TV. It might leave a knot in my stomach.”
She highlighted the significance of sustainability in one’s career and the potential risks of seeking “quick fix” fame that can lead to drastic highs and lows.
Ultimately, Lucy Benjamin remains steadfast in her decision to shield her daughters from Love Island and its potential influence on their perceptions and values.