Virgin Island staff 'hit with strict bedroom ban' behind the scenes of Channel 4's raunchy TV hit
It might have been all about first-time thrills on screen, but behind the cameras of Virgin Island, things were far less steamy.
While the series followed 12 virgins hoping to ditch their inexperience on national telly, it has been claimed that those working behind the scenes - including intimacy coaches Danielle Harel and Celeste Hirschman - were slapped with a strict sex ban.
A source told The Sun: 'Location shoots like this are usually a hotbed for hook-ups. But Virgin Island was no fun for anyone except the virgins.
'Production wanted to make them feel comfortable and unintimidated.
'This sort of crew sex ban is unheard of in the TV world, but is very responsible of Channel 4.'
MailOnline has contact Channel 4 for comment.
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It comes after the controversial show broke streaming records and sparked swathes of complaints with its unflinching on-screen romps.
The groundbreaking Channel 4 show hit screens in May and saw 12 adults embark on a journey of self discovery and openness to intimacy.
Lead by sexologists Dr Danielle Harel and Celeste Hirschman and their team, they guided the group of virgins, aged between 22 and 30, on a unique course.
The six-part series quickly became one of the most talked-about programmes of the year and broke records for the broadcaster.
Packed with shocking scenes and emotional moments, the series was the biggest streaming hit across scripted and unscripted shows this year for Channel 4.
During its first 28 days, Virgin Island's episode one became the most watched show for those aged 16-34 on Channel 4 in 2025.
The controversial show attracted a whopping 1.4million viewers per episode on average.
Now, it has been confirmed that Virgin Island has been recommissioned for a second series.
TV boss Jonah Weston said: 'It's been such a thrill to watch this show catch fire.
'This is a live issue among young people, and from the brave cast to our wonderful experts I don't think I've ever worked on anything quite so bold, warm and well-intentioned.
'Watch out for season 2 which will be bigger and bolder than ever!'
While Dave, who lost his virginity on the island to surrogate partner Kat, has urged people to apply.
He said: 'I had an amazing time on the Island, and I'm truly thankful for the time I spent there.
'Anyone who has watched the show will have seen how much my confidence grew over the course of the series, and I can't speak highly enough of the experts and production team for making us feel so safe and secure.
'I was lucky enough to achieve the ultimate aim of the series whilst on the Island, and I can't wait to see the next group of participants go on the same journey – I would wholly encourage anyone with enough courage and resilience to apply, it's completely changed my life.'
However, the record-breaking show has been hit with controversy too and faced plenty of complaints from viewers.
Some felt uncomfortable by the intimate scenes between surrogates and the contributors being broadcast so openly.
Before it even hit screens last month some telly watchers were shocked by the concept alone and accused Channel 4 of 'scraping the barrel'.
When Dave lost his virginity on the programme those watching at home were delighted for him, but were surprised to see such an intimate moment play out on screen.
Sharing their thoughts, viewers said: 'Probably the most uncomfortable viewing. Only lasted 20mins and had to turn it off, felt like I was watching a love cult in action.
'Virgin Island is a hideous concept for a TV show. Why would you agree to go on it, to get exploited, even if you're getting paid!?';
'Well guys, that's the end of #VirginIsland, it's been... weird.';
'That Virgin Island is one disgustingly difficult watch man Jesus Christ';
'Is anyone else watching Virgin Island on Channel 4? I find it so bizarre everyone is so vulnerable and it's just a bit strange..'
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