Kaylor Martin and Season 6 Islanders Return in New Spinoff

Kaylor Martin gained popularity last summer as a contestant on Season 6 of Love Island USA. Her journey in the villa was closely tied to Aaron Evans, from their initial connection to their split just before the reunion. Viewers witnessed her joyful moments, friendships, and the humorous phrase “Folk Aaron” becoming a fan favorite. Now, she, along with her fellow contestants from Season 6, is embarking on a fresh adventure in Peacock’s anticipated spinoff series, Love Island: Beyond the Villa.

In Beyond the Villa, which is currently available on Peacock, the Islanders reunite to explore their newfound fame, careers, and relationships in Los Angeles. This time, though, Martin feels far more aware of the cameras surrounding her. For instance, Kenny Rodriguez reminds his girlfriend, Jana Craig, not to film when Liv Walker’s new boyfriend is nearby. Tensions flare between Martin and Walker over glam looks on the first day of filming.

During a recent chat with Decider, Martin candidly mentioned needing to be more guarded while filming Beyond the Villa.

“Let’s be honest. Back on Love Island, we had nothing to lose,” Martin stated. “But I think people connect with us because of our authenticity. Just being yourself is really the best approach.”

Rodriguez, also on the Zoom call, shared that it took him some time to readjust to being in front of the camera again. He remarked, “People love us for who we are, and that’s what we showed on the show.”

In their interviews, Martin discussed reuniting with Evans almost a year after their breakup, while Rodriguez elaborated on his living situation with Craig. The full interview reveals their dynamics.

Decider: In the premiere of Beyond the Villa, there were moments where the fourth wall broke, particularly with Kenny stopping Jana from filming. How has this real-life TV experience changed your approach to the show?

Kaylor Martin: Good question. Yes, that’s true. Honestly, back on Love Island, we had nothing at stake. Now, it feels like there’s a lot more to lose. I believe people want to see our true selves. Being real is the way to go.

Kenny Rodriguez: It’s been a while since I was in front of the camera, so that readjustment takes time. But honestly, our audience loves us just as we are; that’s who we portrayed on the show.

Kenny, you and Jana were living separately during filming. Could you explain how that worked? Did you spend time in each other’s apartments?

Kenny: We actually lived next door. Her place is very tidy—I jokingly call it a library! My apartment was a bit messier since we had a dog. We’d usually chill in my place during the mornings, and then she’d head to hers for glam and other things. Being in the same area was nice, especially since this was the longest we’ve been together without any breaks. Our relationship definitely grew during this time.

Kaylor, when you and Aaron reunited in the premiere, it was quite the moment. If you two bumped into each other outside of Love Island, do you think it would have worked out?

Kaylor: I can’t really answer that question, honestly. We met in a very specific setting, and that’s different from real life. How many people actually run into someone like that? I mean, given we’re from different places, it’s unlikely we’d meet casually here. So, I don’t really know.

Aaron mentioned feeling like the cast was divided based on follower counts. Do you agree with that sentiment?

Kaylor: I don’t think so. Leah has a ton of followers, but she’s still the same person I know from the villa. I’m not sure what Aaron was getting at. Plus, we only had Aaron for a brief time in this second project, so I’d want to hear more about his perspectives. It seemed like he didn’t really know some of us well enough to make that kind of comment.

Kenny, you handled that conversation with Connor really well, especially given Jana’s feelings about him. How did you navigate being in that situation?

Kenny: I talked it over with Jana first. I didn’t think it would be too hard, and I’m not one for hostility. I wanted an open dialogue, so I reached out to Connor to understand his side, while also being clear about where I stand with Jana. It was good to have that discussion.

This interview has been edited for length and clarity.

New episodes of Love Island: Beyond the Villa are available to stream on Peacock every Thursday.