Exclusive Interview: Pop Culturalist Chats with Love Island’s Zac Mirabelli

Things got steamy this summer when nine single islanders entered the villa in CBS’ newest hit, Love Island. As islanders came, went, and re-coupled, one pair never wavered: Zac and Elizabeth. They not only won the $100,000 grand prize, but they also won each other. Pop Culturalist caught up with Zac, one-half of the dynamic duo, to chat about the series and their recently launched YouTube Channel.

PC: What were your expectations heading into Love Island? What drew you to this series?
Zac: Before I was contacted to be on the show, I had no clue what Love Island was. I watched the U.K. version to get a sense of what the show was. I didn’t watch a lot of reality TV or TV in general before joining Love Island, but I was drawn to the show because it was an opportunity to spend time at a villa, find love, and make new friendships. When I watched the U.K. version, I saw the friendships that were made. I really liked that about the show. I knew if I didn’t find love on the show, I would leave with some good friendships. I wanted to be a part of that adventure and experience.

I didn’t have a lot of expectations heading into the show. I didn’t think I was going to find someone that I connected with so quickly. I coupled up with Elizabeth right off the bat, and it was smooth sailing from there. I didn’t think that was going to happen.

PC: Love Island became this massive summer hit. What do you think it is about this series that audiences gravitated towards?
Zac: There are a lot of elements that make this show amazing. The friendships being one. Relationships are definitely another. I think audiences were on the edge of their seats trying to see whether a relationship was going to last or not. You never know what’s going to happen on Love Island. Everyone was there listening to their guts and hearts. Also, the overhead commentary that gets added on is hilarious. I really enjoyed that.

PC: You and Elizabeth were the only couple who didn’t recouple throughout the season. Do you think that attributed to your win?
Zac: Maybe in a sense. I feel like people really got to see and follow our journey from the beginning.

PC: How has your life changed since winning Love Island? Have you gone back and watched any of the footage?
Zac: I’ve watched a couple of episodes here and there. I’m trying to catch up. Being a part of the show has created a lot of opportunities. It’s really crazy to be recognized by fans while walking around places and them wanting photos. I remember the first time that I got off the plane with Elizabeth. People recognized us right away, and knew our names. They came up and took photos with us. That was a different experience for me.

PC: What’s the update on you and Elizabeth?
Zac: I’m actually in Michigan visiting her. Then, she’s coming back with me to spend some time in Chicago. Then, we’re off to New York for a few events. After that, I think we’re going to both look into moving out to L.A. I think I’ll eventually get a place with Weston who was on the show.

PC: What’s next for you? Can you tell us about any of these new opportunities?
Zac: Elizabeth and I are starting a YouTube Channel. We know a lot of fans are excited for that because they want to see our life continue outside of the villa.

PC: What was the biggest takeaway from this experience?
Zac: The biggest takeaway from the experience was leaving the villa with a girlfriend and the amazing friendships that I formed. One thing I would tell other people if they were on the show or just in general is, don’t judge a book by its cover. We never knew what intentions the new Islanders were coming in with, but everyone was there for the same thing: love. You have to be gracious, kind, and get to know everyone. Also, always say yes to opportunities! Don’t turn things down. Take chances, even if they make you uncomfortable.

Pop Culturalist Speed Round

PC: Guilty pleasure TV show?
Zac: Riverdale and The 100. I was a big fan of Gossip Girl when it was on.

PC: Guilty pleasure movie?
Zac: The Notebook or Tangled

PC: Favorite book?
Zac: One of my favorite childhood books was Loser.

PC: Favorite play or musical?
Zac: Little Shop of Horrors

PC: A band or artist that fans would be surprised to learn is on your playlist?
Zac: I’m a really big fan of Drake.

To keep up with Zac, follow him on Instagram, and subscribe to Zac and Elizabeth’s YouTube Channel.

Photo Credit: Timothy Kuratek/CBS