Gemma Owen rose to international fame as a finalist on the eighth series of ITV’s Love Island in 2022, where she finished in second place alongside partner Luca Bish. Since leaving the villa, the daughter of football legend Michael Owen has successfully transitioned from a reality TV star to a multifaceted entrepreneur, high-level international dressage rider, and brand ambassador. As of 2026, she remains a prominent figure in the British media landscape, balancing her competitive equestrian career with high-profile partnerships for luxury brands and her role as a Patron for World Horse Welfare.
The Love Island 2022 Journey
Gemma Owen entered the Love Island villa in June 2022 as one of the original cast members, initially sparking conversation due to her famous sporting lineage. Throughout the eight-week series, she was praised for her maturity and “fiery” personality, ultimately forming a solid connection with fishmonger Luca Bish.
Despite the arrival of her ex-boyfriend Jacques O’Neill as a bombshell, Gemma remained focused on her coupling with Luca. The pair navigated challenges like Casa Amor and the “Mile-High” challenge, eventually securing 14.47% of the final public vote to take the runner-up spot behind winners Ekin-Su and Davide.
Post-Villa Relationship with Luca Bish
Following the show’s conclusion in August 2022, Gemma and Luca continued their relationship in the “outside world,” famously waiting several weeks before officially becoming boyfriend and girlfriend. Their relationship was characterized by high-profile appearances and a shared focus on their respective families in Cheshire and Brighton.
However, in November 2022, Gemma announced their split via an Instagram Story, stating that it was the best decision for both of them. Since the breakup, Gemma has focused predominantly on her professional ambitions, maintaining a private personal life while remaining one of the most followed islanders of her generation.
International Dressage Career
Before and after her television stint, Gemma’s primary passion has been dressage, a highly disciplined form of equestrian sport. Having represented Great Britain since age 11, she achieved a major milestone by competing in the 2021 European Junior Championships with her longtime horse, Sirius Black.
Following the tragic loss of Sirius Black in early 2023, Gemma took a brief hiatus before returning to competition with new mounts, including MSJ Florenza and King Ron P. By 2026, she has advanced to Inter II and Grand Prix schoolmaster levels, solidifying her status as a serious athlete rather than just a celebrity rider.
Fashion and Business Ventures
Gemma’s business acumen was evident before Love Island with the launch of her swimwear brand, OG Beachwear. Since the show, she has significantly expanded her portfolio, signing a landmark six-figure deal with PrettyLittleThing (PLT) in August 2022, following in the footsteps of Molly-Mae Hague.
Her collaborations with PLT have included multiple “Desert to Dusk” collections and a focus on the PLT Marketplace for sustainable resale. In 2026, her brand value continues to grow through partnerships with luxury names such as Longines, Boodles, and Aston Martin, positioning her as a premium “lifestyle” influencer.
Patronage and Charity Work
In 2023, Gemma was appointed as a Patron for World Horse Welfare, a leading global equine charity. This role allows her to use her platform to advocate for improved welfare standards and the protection of horses worldwide.
Her work with the charity involves visiting rescue centers like Penny Farm and participating in educational campaigns. As she approaches her centenary with the organization, her influence is credited with bringing a younger demographic of advocates to the cause of equine compassion.
Media Appearances in 2026
By 2026, Gemma has diversified her media presence beyond reality TV, frequently appearing as a speaker at major events like the National Equine Show. She has also featured on Horse & Country TV, providing expert commentary on dressage and sporting life.
Her digital presence remains robust, with over 2 million followers on Instagram and a successful YouTube channel where she shares “day in the life” vlogs of her training routines. Her ability to maintain a high-fashion aesthetic while staying “mucky” in the stables has defined her unique personal brand.
The Owen Family Influence
While Gemma has built her own independent career, her family remains a central part of her public image. She continues to live and train at the family’s Manor House Stables in Cheshire, a premier racing yard founded by her parents, Michael and Louise.
Her father, Michael Owen, has been a vocal supporter of her career, often appearing in her content to discuss their shared competitive drive. The family’s involvement in the equestrian world—ranging from racing to dressage—provides a supportive infrastructure for Gemma’s 2026 sporting goals.
Practical Information and Planning
For those looking to follow Gemma’s career or attend her events in 2026:
Event Dates: Look for her at the National Equine Show (NEC Birmingham) and major British Dressage Premier League fixtures.
Where to Watch: International dressage highlights are often streamed on ClipMyHorse.TV or Horse & Country.
Shopping: OG Beachwear is available through its official website, and her PLT collections can be found on the PrettyLittleThing app.
Visiting Cheshire: While Manor House Stables is a private working yard, public tours are occasionally available via organized racing heritage days.
FAQs
How old was Gemma Owen on Love Island?
Gemma was 19 years old when she entered the villa in 2022, making her one of the youngest contestants in the show’s history at that time.
Are Gemma and Luca still together in 2026?
No, Gemma Owen and Luca Bish split in November 2022, roughly three months after the Love Island final.
Who is Gemma Owen’s horse in 2026?
As of 2026, Gemma is competing with King Ron P, having previously ridden MSJ Florenza following the passing of her iconic horse, Sirius Black.
What is Gemma Owen’s net worth?
While exact figures are private, her six-figure PLT deal, OG Beachwear brand, and luxury partnerships suggest a net worth in the millions.
Did Gemma Owen win Love Island?
Gemma did not win; she and Luca Bish finished as the runners-up (2nd place) to winners Ekin-Su Cülcüloğlu and Davide Sanclimenti.
Does Gemma Owen still do dressage?
Yes, dressage remains her primary career. She trains daily and competes at the international Young Rider and Small Tour levels.
What is Gemma Owen’s swimwear brand?
Her brand is called OG Beachwear, which she launched in early 2022 prior to appearing on television.
Who is Gemma Owen’s father?
Her father is Michael Owen, the former England, Liverpool, and Real Madrid footballer and Ballon d’Or winner.
Is Gemma Owen a brand ambassador for PLT?
Yes, she signed as a brand ambassador for PrettyLittleThing in August 2022 and has released several successful collections with them.
Where does Gemma Owen live?
Gemma lives at her family home, Lower Soughton Hall, in Flintshire/Cheshire, where the family’s equestrian facilities are located.
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