Love Island USA Season 5: Unpacking Hannah & Marco's Historic Win And Engagement

The summer of 2023 brought with it a whirlwind of romance, drama, and unforgettable moments as Peacock's hit reality series, Love Island USA, returned for its highly anticipated fifth season. Set against the stunning backdrop of Fiji, viewers were captivated by the journey of a new group of Islanders searching for love and a chance to win the coveted $100,000 grand prize. As the season drew to a close, one couple emerged victorious, capturing the hearts of the American public: Hannah Wright and Marco Donatelli. Their journey from the villa to a history-making engagement has left fans buzzing, proving that sometimes, love truly does win – both on and off the screen.

The Summer of Love Island USA Season 5: A Recap

The anticipation for Love Island USA Season 5 began even before its official launch. The original Islanders were first revealed on July 11, 2023, a week ahead of the series premiere, setting the stage for what promised to be an exciting season. Hosted by the charismatic Sarah Hyland, the show quickly introduced viewers to a vibrant cast, each hoping to find their perfect match.

The villa saw its fair share of new arrivals and twists throughout its 37 episodes. Among the notable entries were familiar faces from other reality TV circuits. Matia Marcantuoni, for instance, had previously appeared as a contestant on the second season of Bachelor in Paradise Canada. Later in the season, on Day 25, the villa welcomed Scott van-der-Sluis, who had just weeks prior been a contestant on the tenth series of Love Island in the United Kingdom. These additions brought fresh dynamics and tested the existing connections, making for compelling television.

As weeks turned into a month, connections deepened, hearts were broken, and new alliances formed. The competition for the top spot was fierce, with several strong couples making it to the finale. The final four couples included Bergie and Taylor, Carmen Kocourek and Kenzo Nudo (who looked to take their love into the real world), and the fan-favorite runners-up, Kassy and Leo. However, it was Hannah and Marco who ultimately stood out, proving their genuine connection to the viewers.

Hannah and Marco: A Love Story Forged in the Villa

Their Early Connection and Unwavering Bond

From the moment Hannah Wright entered the villa, her connection with Marco Donatelli was undeniable. The duo coupled up very early on in the season, and unlike many other couples who faced constant tests and re-couplings, Hannah and Marco remained a notoriously strong and consistent pair throughout their time on the show. Their relationship was built on mutual respect, playful banter, and a deep understanding that resonated with many viewers.

While the Love Island USA hashtag on social media sometimes suggested their win was a "somewhat controversial choice" among a segment of the audience, many fans believed Hannah and Marco were indeed the "most genuine couple" in the villa. Their unwavering commitment to each other, even amidst the chaos and temptations of the villa, showcased a maturity and sincerity that set them apart. They navigated challenges with grace, solidifying their bond with each passing day.

The Road to Victory and the Grand Finale

The grand finale of Love Island USA Season 5 aired on Sunday, August 27, 2023, on Peacock. After 37 episodes of laughter, tears, and romance, viewers had cast their votes, and the moment of truth arrived. Host Sarah Hyland revealed the winners as Marco and Hannah. The winning couple embraced warmly as their fellow castmates, including the three runner-up couples, cheered enthusiastically, celebrating their well-deserved victory.

With their win, Hannah and Marco also claimed the impressive $100,000 prize money. In a true test of partnership, Marco decided to split the money with Hannah, reinforcing the idea that their journey was truly a shared one. Their victory was a testament to their strong connection and the belief that viewers had in their potential for a lasting relationship outside the villa.

Beyond the Villa: Hannah and Marco's Historic Engagement

For many reality TV couples, the true test of their relationship begins once the cameras stop rolling. For Hannah and Marco, their love story only continued to blossom, leading to a significant milestone that made history for the Love Island USA franchise. Less than two years after their victory, the couple announced joyous news that sent ripples of excitement through their fanbase.

On Wednesday, May 28, 2025, Marco Donatelli, 24, and Hannah Wright, 26, took their relationship to the next level by getting engaged. The romantic proposal took place on a beautiful beach outside the Secrets Cap Cana Resort & Spa in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. The couple jointly shared the thrilling news on social media on May 29, 2025, delighting fans and followers alike. Details of their engagement were also shared on NBC Insider, confirming the happy news.

This engagement is particularly significant as Hannah and Marco have made history as the "1st Couple on Show to Get Engaged (Exclusive)" from Love Island USA. While many couples from the show have attempted to make their relationships work in the real world, Hannah and Marco are the first winners to officially announce their engagement, cementing their status as a true success story of the series. Their journey from strangers in a villa to fiancés is a heartwarming testament to the power of finding love in unexpected places.

A Lasting Love Story

Hannah Wright and Marco Donatelli's journey on Love Island USA Season 5 was one for the books. From their immediate connection and consistent strength in the villa to their triumphant win and the decision to split the $100,000 prize, they captivated audiences. But it is their post-show success, culminating in their historic engagement in May 2025, that truly defines their legacy. They not only won the hearts of America but also found enduring love, proving that the dream of finding 'the one' on Love Island can indeed become a beautiful reality. Their story continues to inspire, reminding us all that genuine connections, once found, can lead to the most extraordinary outcomes.