Amaya Espinal and Bryan Arenales, the champions of “Love Island USA” Season 7, have officially parted ways, confirming their breakup through Instagram statements on August 27. The announcement ends speculation that began when fans noticed social media clues and comes just over a month after their televised victory.
In her statement, Amaya, affectionately called “Amaya Papaya” by supporters, revealed that she and Bryan are “no longer together,” citing diverging paths post-villa. “After leaving the villa, it became very clear that we were on two different journeys. Our visions didn’t align and relationships are supposed to be a team sport,” she wrote, adding a metaphorical touch with “You don’t have to drink the whole sea to know it’s salty.” She concluded with well-wishes for Bryan.
Bryan responded with his own Instagram Story, stating, “As many of you already know, Amaya and I have decided to go our separate ways.” He acknowledged they were “not on the same page” but expressed thankfulness for their shared experiences and hopes for her future happiness. This cordial yet definitive closure was posted hours after Amaya’s initial reveal.
The breakup rumors intensified when the couple unfollowed each other on Instagram ahead of the Love Island USA reunion special, which aired on August 25. During the reunion, hosted by Andy Cohen and Ariana Madix, they addressed cheating allegations, with Bryan admitting to a “lapse in judgement” at a paid event but asserting they had resolved the issue. Amaya supported him, emphasizing their “healthy” relationship dynamic at the time.
Amaya and Bryan’s romance blossomed on the show, where Bryan’s defense of Amaya during challenges, like the “Stand on Business” mailbox incident, endeared them to viewers. His cultural explanation for her use of terms like “babe” resonated, and their genuine connection led to their win on July 13, splitting a $100,000 prize.
Post-victory, they appeared on multiple shows, including “TODAY” and Jimmy Fallon’s program, showcasing their chemistry. However, the reality of long-distance—Bryan in Boston, Amaya in New York—posed challenges. Bryan had mentioned Amaya meeting his family, with his mother reportedly shedding “happy tears,” but underlying issues surfaced.
Amaya hinted at deeper troubles on TikTok, commenting on videos that showed Bryan at clubs in Miami shortly after the split, expressing hurt over his actions. She reposted content criticizing his behavior, suggesting a more painful end than the statements implied.
This split joins a trend of reality TV couples facing difficulties after the cameras stop, highlighting the pressures of fame and distance. Fans and media alike are reflecting on the ephemeral nature of such relationships, with support pouring in for both individuals as they navigate their separate paths.