Brad McClelland is one of the favourites to win so far (Picture: ITV/Shutterstock)
Love Island star Brad McClelland has explained he’s prepared for his estranged father to recognise him on the show – but it won’t make much of a difference to his life.
The 26-year-old labourer is already one of the favourites from this year’s line-up of islanders, winning over viewers before he’s set foot in the villa.
After mentioning in his intro video that he lives with his nan, Brad told Metro.co.uk and other press that he doesn’t have a relationship with his dad, but is expecting him to see him on the show.
‘I think he will recognise us,’ he reflected. ‘[But] it’s a case of I’ve lived 26 years of my life without him doing alright, not needing him.
‘If he wants to get in touch, he gets in touch. If he doesn’t, then it doesn’t make any difference to me.’
‘I’ve lived with my nan since I was four years old, the reason I’m still living with her now is because she gave up a lot of her time to look after me when she didn’t need to, when I was young and vulnerable,’ he added.
‘Now she’s older and vulnerable, it’s my turn to give that care back. All the years that she put in with me when I was young are the years that I’m giving back with me looking after her.
‘It’s not to say that I’m gonna live with her until she unfortunately passes away, but she’s a priority to me.’
Brad went on to explain that he was raised by his mum and his nan until the age of 12, when his mum moved further away. He then stayed with his nan after that.
Along with Sharon Gaffka, Brad is currently one of the favourites to win – and he knows how he’d spend his winnings if he does make it all the way.
‘I’ve always said if I ever got some money – if I won the lottery or came into some money or whatever – I’d take my brothers and sisters as a group [on holiday],’ he explained.