Beyond the Villa: Liv Walker’s Next Chapter

She first caught our attention under the sun-soaked skies of Love Island USA Season 6, arriving as the season’s inaugural bombshell and instantly igniting the villa with confidence, charisma, and a dose of big-sister wisdom. But Olivia “Liv” Walker isn’t just another reality TV alum riding a wave of fleeting fame. The 23-year-old Sydneysider, ordained minister, and self-confessed Disney devotee has emerged as a rare kind of star—equal parts unfiltered humour, emotional intelligence, and genuine heart.

Photographed by Veronica Sams

You were the first bombshell to walk into the villa—and instantly a fan favourite. Looking back, how did that moment shape the way you carried yourself through the season?

Coming in as a bombshell definitely set the bar as first impressions matter! I made a conscious choice to stay real from that moment on. It taught me that confidence isn’t loud, it’s honest. So I leaned into my true self and was ready for whatever the villa threw at me.

You’ve been lovingly dubbed the “big sister” of Love Island—was that role something you naturally stepped into, or did it surprise you?

A bit of both! I didn’t plan on being the villa’s “big sis,” it sort of happened because that’s just how I am. I’m protective and nurturing. In the villa, emotions were high, and I’m the type who shows up when people need a pep talk or honest advice. “Big sister energy” I take as one of my favorite compliments.

You’re an ordained minister and a Disney superfan—two very unexpected facts. What do those sides of you say about who you are beyond the screen?

I mean… I like to keep people on their toes! Being ordained is kind of my party trick. I’m always ready to officiate a wedding when needed. And Disney? That’s just me, never letting go of my childhood.

There’s a radiant confidence to you that doesn’t feel rehearsed. Where does that inner strength come from, and how do you keep it intact under pressure?

I keep it solid with routines that serve me, like skincare and fitness, but mostly it comes from knowing who I am. Once you realise self‑validation beats anything external, the pressure doesn’t get to you as much. And yes, a little bronzy glow from a good spray tan helps too.

From emotional support to comic relief, you wore many hats in the villa. What version of yourself are you most excited for people to see in Beyond the Villa?

You haven’t seen the full picture yet! There were more laughs, silliness, and off‑script Liv. Beyond the Villa gives me space to show that multi‑faceted energy.

With over 2 million followers and counting, your online presence feels just as real as your in-person charm. How do you stay grounded as your platform grows?

I lean on my crew, my friends and my family. They keep me real. And I step back when I need to. I post from my heart. Seeing a comment and reminding myself that the internet only captures a piece of the full story helps me stay grounded.

If you could write a love letter to your 16-year-old self, what would it say?

Ooh—first, I’d give her a massive hug. Then I’d say: “Stop being so hard on yourself. You’re doing better than you think. Keep being weird, don’t dim your light, and please ditch the orange spray tan. Life’s about to get way more fun than you imagined—hang in there.”

What’s one thing the cameras didn’t capture about you that you wish more people knew?

Honestly? I’m a bit of a grandma. Like, I’m happiest in my pyjamas, watching a funny movie with a cup of tea. The cameras caught all the glam and giggles, but not so much the side of me that’s super low-key.

Style, sun, and steamy drama aside—what has being on Love Island taught you about female friendship?

Real female friendship? That’s it, everything. When women cheer each other on without competition, it’s amazing. I learned that lifting people up is a form of love in itself.

You’ve proven you’re not just a reality star—you’re a storyteller, a connector, and a natural on screen. What’s next for Liv Walker the brand, and Liv Walker the woman?

The brand is branching into lifestyle and media. I’d love to get more into hosting, collabs, etc. As a woman? I’m stepping into LA life, making memories and exploring a new side of myself. There’s so much more to tell!

Liv’s Holiday Rules

What’s always in your carry-on—no matter the destination?

Sleep mask, skincare, electrolytes, mascara, headphones, my signature lipliner.

Long flight survival kit—what’s inside?

Hydrating mist, hoodie, noise-cancelling headphones and candy—balance is key.

Beach beauty MVP?

Tinted SPF

Are you an over-packer or a ‘fits-in-a-tote’ kind of girl?

Total over‑packer. I need outfit options, always.

Three things we’d find in your summer makeup bag?

A good lengthening mascara, bronzer, and body glow

Swimwear style of choice: bold print or classic black?

Bold Print

Best playlist vibe for takeoff?

Depending on the location and type of trip, either a happy upbeat, getting in the mood playlist or a relaxing, calm vibey playlist.

Dream destination you haven’t ticked off yet?

Bahamas

Vacation look: heels or barefoot on the beach?

Heels

What makes a place feel like a retreat to you?

Zero notifications, yummy food, sunshine and plenty of space just to be me.