Love Island USA Episode 12 Recap

Jun 16, 2025

Overview

This episode review covers the key dramatic events, shifting relationships, challenges, and a major recoupling twist on Love Island USA Season 7, Episode 12, highlighting the emotional fallout and strategic moves made by the contestants.

Early Episode Dynamics

  • Pepe and Hannah return after a secret makeout in the Speak Easy, sparking tension with Charlie.
  • Charlie confronts Hannah about her kiss with Pepe; she admits her interest in both men.
  • Austin expresses doubts to Shelly about their connection, while Shelly wants more effort from him and is frustrated by Ace’s confidence.
  • Huda and Jeremiah argue about boundaries and communications but agree to move forward together.

Changing Connections and Tensions

  • Ace tells Shelly he wants to explore things with Iris; Shelly reacts by distancing herself emotionally.
  • Multiple contestants discuss their shifting romantic interests, including Charlie with Iris and Alandria considering Jaylen over Taylor due to lack of compliments.
  • Huda reacts strongly to Jeremiah’s confessions and his interactions with other women, displaying possessive tendencies.
  • Hannah and Charlie agree to be more respectful while exploring other options.

Challenge: "Got Wood"

  • Islanders participate in a challenge involving physical tasks and secret makeout sessions, exposing new and old romantic tensions.
  • Notable moments include public and private kisses, with some contestants surprised or upset by their partners’ actions.
  • Jeremiah becomes more open and confident during the challenge, while Alandria and Jaylen share a sweet moment.

Recoupling Twist & Fallout

  • Host Ariana announces a recoupling based on America’s votes, breaking up three couples and leaving three contestants vulnerable.
  • America votes Jaylen with Alandria, Pepe with Hannah, and Jeremiah with Iris, surprising everyone.
  • Huda, Charlie, and Taylor are left single; emotional reactions follow, especially from Amaya and Hannah.
  • Islanders vote to send Charlie home, driven by recent relationship drama and shifting alliances.

Emotional Outcomes and Commentary

  • Hannah regrets her actions as Charlie is sent home; Amaya is emotional over her role in the vote.
  • Huda blames America and remains unaware of her own role in unpopularity with viewers.
  • The review predicts further drama as alliances shift and America’s perception influences the game.

Decisions

  • Charlie is sent home: Cast votes determine Charlie’s departure after a tie between him, Huda, and Taylor.
  • New couples based on America’s votes: Jaylen & Alandria, Pepe & Hannah, Jeremiah & Iris.

Action Items

  • TBD – Contestants: Adjust strategies and relationships in light of new couples and America’s input.
  • TBD – Producers: Possibly introduce a new bombshell for Shelly to stir up dynamics further.

Questions / Follow-Ups

  • Will Shelly get a new romantic interest after being cut off by Ace?
  • How will Huda and Jeremiah adapt to public disapproval of their couple?
  • Will Hannah's realization about Charlie change her gameplay moving forward?
  • How will Amaya cope with the emotional strain of the process?