As Love Island viewers continue to voice concerns over Joe Garrett's treatment of Lucie Donlan, Women's Aid have stepped into have their say on the matter.
Over 302 viewers have about Joe's behaviour, which escalated when Lucie said she'd rather spend time with Tommy Fury than any of the other girls in the villa.
He told her "You're very very close to all the boys individually, but now I think it's time maybe to get close with the girls."
And his approach has been labelled as manipulative by fans of the show, who think he's trying to control Lucie, as she was visibly upset and ended up sitting alone crying on the terrace after their discussion.
One ranted "can joe stop f****** emotionally manipulating lucie for having a friendship please," and another tweeted "joe is everything every girl should run from. red flags all around love island weird little possessive monster."
Another viewer went as far as saying show bosses need to step in, posting "The love island producers should have stepped in by now to support Lucie.
"She’s being targeted by Joe and Amy every episode and it’s heartbreaking to watch. If they’re so supportive of mental health now, then they should realise that this isn’t right. "
Love Island 2017 winner tweeted "Joe can you please just like Lucie for LUCIE and not who you want her to be. Thank you x"
And now Women's Aid have had their say on the matter, praising viewings for recognising warning signs.
Adina Claire, Co-Chief Executive of Women’s Aid, said: “Controlling behaviour is never acceptable, and with Love Island viewers complaining to Ofcom in record numbers about Joe’s possessive behaviour towards Lucie, more people are becoming aware of this and want to challenge it.
"Abusive relationships often start off with subtle signs of control, so it’s important that it is recognised at an early stage. viewers are now very vocal in calling out unhealthy behaviour between couples on the show, and this is a positive development.”
"If you or someone you know is experiencing abuse in a relationship, call the Freephone 24/7 National Domestic Violence Helpline, run by Women’s Aid in partnership with Refuge, on 0808 2000 247 or visit www.womensaid.org.uk .”
