Berkshire’s very own gym-pro Abby Reynolds shot onto our screens when she appeared in the first-ever series of Stranded On Honeymoon Island, where she was paired with Helen Scott in one of reality TV’s rare queer match-ups. At 32, the fitness creator quickly became a fan favourite – not just for her fit physique and survival skills, but for bringing authentic, grounded queer representation to a mainstream dating format that’s been crying out for it.
We caught up with Abby to unpack what really went through her mind when she said “yes” to marrying a stranger, how the experience pushed her emotionally, what it meant to represent masc lesbians on primetime TV, and where things stand now between her and Helen. Plus, she spills on dating influencer Katie Jerromes, island must-haves, and the weirdest DM to ever hit her inbox.
What was going through your mind at the moment you said “yes” to the show and agreed to marry someone you’d just met?
Honestly, it was a mix of excitement and nerves. I’m someone who usually thinks things through, especially in my real life with fitness, structure, and routine – but something about the experience felt like a once-in-a-lifetime moment. I wanted to push myself out of my comfort zone and trust the process, even though saying “yes” to marrying a stranger is definitely not something you can prepare for. It felt like a chance to grow, learn, and open myself up in a way I never had before.
What was your biggest takeaway from the experience?
The biggest thing I took from it was just how much you learn about yourself when you’re put in an environment where you can’t hide, especially with cameras on you all day. I learned that I’m stronger and more grounded than I give myself credit for. The experience also showed me the importance of communication – real, honest, uncomfortable communication – and how much it shapes relationships. Even though the environment was intense, it pushed me to grow emotionally in ways I didn’t expect.
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What was the hardest part of the experience?
Being isolated in a new environment without your family or friends to contact. I’m very close to all mine, so I found that very challenging.
The show marks a rare instance of a queer couple in a mainstream UK dating format. How did it feel to be part of that, and did you feel a sense of responsibility around representation?
It meant a lot to me. Growing up, you didn’t really see people who looked like me, dressed like me, or loved like me on mainstream dating shows. So to step into that space – masc-presenting, queer, confident in who I am – I knew it could mean something to people watching. There was definitely a sense of responsibility, but also pride. I wanted to represent masc lesbians in a way that felt real and positive, and show that our relationships deserve the same visibility as anyone else’s.
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You and Helen had a strong beginning, but the journey wasn’t without its bumps (as she’s discussed). Looking back now, how would you describe your relationship from “island honeymoon” to now? Are you and Helen still in contact?
When you meet someone in such an intense, fast-paced environment, everything gets amplified. There were amazing moments, but also challenges that came from trying to build something real under pressure. Looking back, I’d describe it as a learning experience for both of us. We shared something unique because no one else will ever understand what that environment felt like.
Related article: Interview: Lesbian Love in Paradise – Helen Scott Talks Stranded on Honeymoon Island
As for now, we wish each other well, but we’re not in regular contact. Sometimes things feel right in the moment but don’t translate the same way in real life, and that’s okay. I value what the experience taught me, and I hope she does too.
On a deserted tropical island, what would your “must-have” three items be (besides your partner)? And what’s the one thing you’d never want to go without again?
• Resistance bands – I can train anywhere, but I’m not surviving without a workout.
• A slick bun kit – hair ties, a hard brush… the essentials.
• A knife or multitool – the practical side of me kicks in on anything survival-related.
Never want to go without again:
Proper food. Living off tiny portions or bare essentials is humbling, but I’m not signing up for that ever again!
What’s the weirdest DM you’ve received since being on the show?
I’ve had quite a few crazy ones. To keep this PG I would say the weirdest would be a slick bun hair tutorial in slow motion.
You’re now dating influencer Katie Jerromes. How did you meet?
I actually came across Katie’s socials on Instagram before anything happened. I remember seeing her content and thinking she was amazing – gorgeous, funny, great energy. So I did what is quite unusual for me and slid into her DMs. I took her out for our first date and instantly knew she was my person.
Who’s your celebrity crush and why?
Margot Robbie – I mean, I did say I was into femme blondes after all.
What’s next for you?
I’m enjoying living in the moment, something the island life taught me. Building my online coaching business whilst working with a few incredible brands and potentially another TV show – you’ll have to wait and see on that one!
Thanks for the chat Abby.
Nonchalant x
This article was written by one of our creative team writers here at Nonchalant Magazine.
