Jacques O’Neill: former Castleford hooker leaves Love Island

Former Castleford Tigers hooker Jacques O’Neill has decided to leave hit reality ITV show Love Island.

The 23-year-old has decided to depart the Love Island villa immediately, with scenes to be shown on tonight’s show.

An ITV spokesperson said: “Jacques has made the decision to leave the Villa. He will explain his reasons to the Islanders during tonight’s episode. We fully support his decision and look forward to seeing what’s next for Jacques.”

O’Neill was granted a release from his contract with the Tigers in June so he could pursue an opportunity presented to him by Love Island bosses.

Castleford have the first option to re-sign O’Neill should he wish to return to playing rugby league.

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O’Neill heading into the Love Island villa

O’Neill’s background

O’Neill has made more than 30 career appearances since making his Super League debut for Castleford in 2019.

The hooker hails from Barrow-in-Furness in Cumbria. He moved to West Yorkshire when he was picked up by Castleford as a youngster.

O’Neill has also enjoyed loan spells in the Championship with Leigh Centurions and Halifax Panthers. In April 2021, he was named in the England Knights Performance Squad.

O’Neill will become the first professional rugby league player to enter the Love Island villa.

Love Island is shown on ITV2 at 9pm every night of the week, except from Saturdays.

It is unclear whether O’Neill would like to make a return to playing professional rugby league, but the Tigers have the first option to re-sign him should he wish to do so.

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