Love Island USA’s Ariana Madix commends controversial Bravo host after ‘intense’ reunion

Beloved Bravo host Andy Cohen’s job might seem like an easy one until you’re given a mic, placed in front of the camera, and tasked with being a moderator.

Former Vanderpump Rules star Ariana Madix realized how hard the job actually is when she hosted her first reunion as the new Love Island USA host. For years, Ariana has spent many years on reality television, starring in 11 seasons of Vanderpump Rules. Though she has extensive experience in being a guest on a reality reunion show, she’s a novice at hosting a show. Being that taking on the role as emcee for Love Island was fresh for her, it gave her a new appreciation for Andy.

A lot happened during the Season 6 Love Island USA reunion, with wild moments such as shocking bombshells, and talks of a leaked NSFW video, and more – all of which was much to take in for Ariana.

During an interview with Page Six, Ariana revealed that she had a “newfound appreciation” for Andy after the “intense” reunion. While she did it once, but somehow, Andy is able to do it a dozen times a year.

Ariana got some advice on hosting from Andy

“And he gave me the best advice beforehand,” Ariana explained to the news outlet. “He just said, ‘Don’t be afraid to go out there and to be you and put your own stamp on it.’”

She added: “Obviously, he’s done so many reunions. He’s literally, like, the king of it! So it was really amazing to be able to get some advice from him before doing it.”

Despite having Andy’s advice in her back pocket when Love Island’s reunion rolled around, Ariana still had some struggles. The TV personality disclosed that she had a tough time remaining impartial to some of what she heard at the reunion, but she managed to make it through.

“As host, there is leeway for you to feel how you feel and have a bit of your own opinion, but at the same time, you do have to be as impartial as you can,” she noted. “It’s tough sometimes because you’re watching all these things happening, and you’re rooting for everyone to find love, and you’re rooting for everyone to be treated properly. But of course, life happens.”

Ariana replaced Love Island USA host Sarah Hyland when she departed from the show after Season 5. The ex-Bravo star revealed that she would be hosting Love Island USA in March 2024, a little while before Season 11 of Vanderpump Rules officially ended.