BBC viewers issues same complaint over Davina McCall's Honeymoon Island

Davina McCall returned to our screens tonight with her fresh BBC dating programme, Stranded on Honeymoon Island. The show's concept involves complete strangers getting hitched. After the 12 singles meet for the first time during a speed-dating event, they are then paired off by matchmakers.

Later that day, the newly matched couples say their vows and head directly to a secluded island with nothing but their wedding attire, an outdoor toilet, and three weeks to test their bond. However, as the first episode aired on Wednesday night, viewers were quick to draw comparisons to Married At First Sight, which is broadcast on E4.

One viewer posted on X:"#StrandedOnHoneymoonIsand continues to struggle for ratings in Australia... Will BBC One's version later this year struggle like its Survivor reboot did? Or with its mix of Married at First Sight and Survivor prove more popular in the UK?" While another commented: "I never understood the appeal of MAFS, but I absolutely don't understand how people can degrade themselves on a show like Honeymoon Island, and I've only seen the promos."

Another viewer questioned whether the format was necessary at all, writing: "With traitors, race across the world, destination x, apprentice, and plenty of reality focus on BBC One, was #StrandedOnHoneymoonIsland actually needed? Bit ott reality and too little focus on hit drama BBC1 2025." 

Despite this, one enthusiast felt particularly excited about the series and was eager to witness television favourite Davina, recognised for appearing on The Masked Singer and formerly presenting Big Brother, return to their screens.

They commented: "@ThisIsDavina is back with a new amazing and epic looking reality show with #StrandedOnHoneyMoonIsland on @BBCOne. Can't wait to be glued to it and see Davina add that extra bit of spice and fun to it!" #BBCOne #HoneymoonIsland.

Despite the tepid response, the programme has reportedly already secured a second series.

Speaking to The Sun, the source revealed: "It doesn't want the exact same format, just something that can provide a similar kind of tropical, steamy vibe - and bosses think that's what they've got on their hands here.

"Of course, they'll wait to see what the audience reaction is, but execs have already cast their eye over early versions of the series and are feeling confident."

The source claimed executives are eager to "renew their vows" with another series of the programme.

The show features complete strangers getting married. Following a speed-dating session where 12 singletons meet initially, matchmakers then pair them with a partner.

That same day, the matched couples exchange vows and depart immediately to an isolated island carrying only their wedding attire, an outdoor toilet, and three weeks to evaluate their compatibility. 

Express.co.uk has contacted the BBC for further comment.