Love Island has faced calls for the show to be axed following the death of former host Caroline Flack.
There have been doubts over the summer series return after critics called for the ITV2 series to be axed or take a year off after Caroline – who strenuously defended Love Island against arguments it should be binned following the deaths of Mike Thalassitis and Sophie Gradon – became the third star linked to the series to take their own life.
But ITV has announced it is hunting for fresh talent after opening applications on January 12.
An advert shown on the TVBe On TV Website asked potential islanders: "How do you fancy finding love in the sun?
"We're now on the lookout for lively singles from across the country to take part.
"ITV2 are looking for vibrant singles from across the UK who want to head to the sun, in search of love!
"The chosen cast will spend time in a luxury villa, getting to know one another, but to remain in paradise they must win the hearts of the public and their fellow Islanders who ultimately decide their fate on Love Island."
The post, originally published on January 12, urged: "If you think you’ve got what it takes, then we want to hear from you straight away."
Applications for the new show will remain open until April 30.
The current series is due to end tonight with either Paige Turley and Finn Tapp, Siânise Fudge and Luke Trotman, Demi Jones and Luke Mabbott or Jess Gale and Ched Uzor taking the top prize.
The first winter edition was hit by tragedy following the death of long-term host Caroline.
Troubled Caroline had been taking some time out and was replaced by Laura Whitmore following her assault arrest in December.
She took her own life weeks before the case was set to reach trial in March.
ITV bosses made the decision not to tell the contestants in the Cape Town villa about Caroline's death and let the series continue after two episodes were pulled.
The Islanders were told of the awful news yesterday by ITV bosses, who had previously decided to keep it from them.
They were told off-air and the footage will never be screened.
* Samaritans (116 123) operates a 24-hour service available every day of the year. If you prefer to write down how you’re feeling, or if you’re worried about being overheard on the phone, you can email Samaritans at jo@samaritans.org
