The off-screen spark ignited on , continues to burn brightly for Love Island USA Season 7 contestants Nic Vansteenberghe and Olandria Carthen. The couple, who captured hearts with their friends-to-lovers arc on the Peacock dating series, are still going strong, navigating post-villa life and building a relationship that extends far beyond the confines of reality television.
“Olandria and I, we’re killing it,” Vansteenberghe told OK!, offering a glimpse into their thriving connection. Their recent activities include a casual outing in Los Angeles, enjoying dinner and a movie – a testament to their ability to translate the televised chemistry into genuine, everyday moments.
Vansteenberghe playfully acknowledged Carthen’s growing presence in the fashion and social scene, quipping, “Nic from Olandria is a lucky man.” This lighthearted comment underscores the dynamic between the two, where Carthen’s rising profile is celebrated and embraced.
The transition from the highly curated environment of the villa to the realities of the outside world hasn’t been without its adjustments. However, the couple appears to have successfully navigated the shift, using the new year as a catalyst for renewed focus and goal-setting. “When the new year hit, I definitely wanted a reset from the show,” Vansteenberghe explained. “I loved being on the show and I loved everything that the show had, [but] Olandria and I, coming into the new year, we both sat down and we were like, ‘All right, let’s goal set here.’”
For Vansteenberghe, that reset has centered around his passion for DJing. He’s been actively pursuing gigs, having already completed 28 shows. Beyond his professional pursuits, Vansteenberghe also revealed a long-held ambition: to compete on Dancing With the Stars. “I want to go on Dancing With the Stars extremely bad,” he admitted. “I need to upgrade my moves.” He even joked about needing to meet Carthen’s uncle, who apparently possesses impressive dance skills showcased on TikTok.
The couple’s journey hasn’t been entirely free of external scrutiny. Vansteenberghe acknowledged the challenges of navigating rumors and online speculation, particularly in the wake of their newfound visibility. “That’s a great question. I’m still trying to figure it out to this day,” he said, reflecting on the complexities of managing public perception. “To address the rumors and stuff, it’s mainly about knowing the facts and knowing what you know and not listening to what you see online before you talk to your person or family or friends.” He also noted the impact of online drama on his family, emphasizing the importance of privacy.
Despite the pressures of public life, Vansteenberghe and Carthen are leaning on the support of their fellow Love Island USA castmates. He recently spent time with TJ Palma, Iris Kendall, Hannah Fields, and even Rob Rausch from the previous season, enjoying a Korean barbecue outing. “We all went through this same experience, and having each other there is really cool and we’re all now super close friends,” Vansteenberghe shared. “Doing normal people stuff, not just in the villa doing those interesting challenges, it’s cool to have a real relationship with these people and do real things.”
The experience has also prompted a personal shift for Vansteenberghe, particularly regarding self-care. He confessed to previously lacking a consistent hygiene routine, a gap he’s now addressing through a partnership with Dove Men+Care. “The only reason I struggled is because I never had a routine. As unhygienic as it sounds, it’s so bad, but now that I do have this partnership, I’m able to get deodorant,” he admitted. He believes that a stronger focus on grooming would have boosted his confidence during his initial entrance into the villa.
Vansteenberghe’s collaboration with Dove Men+Care centers around the brand’s new Mood-Boosting Aluminum-Free Deodorant Collection. The line, designed to align fragrance with mindset, offers four scents – Midnight, Breeze, Paradise, and Horizon – each intended to evoke a specific mood. “Whenever I choose a brand, I try and align it with so many things. Health being the first one,” Vansteenberghe explained. “With Dove Men+Care, it’s about hygiene, it’s about smell and I want to make Olandria feel like she’s with a healthy, hygienic, good-smelling guy.”
He revealed that the “Midnight” scent is his go-to for making a confident impression, while “Breeze” is a favorite for everyday wear. And, crucially, the scents have received Carthen’s approval. “They’re all Olandria-approved,” he confirmed. “I would say she likes the Breeze one.”
The partnership reflects a broader trend of men prioritizing self-care and wellness, moving beyond traditional grooming habits to embrace products that support both physical and mental wellbeing. For Vansteenberghe, it’s a journey of self-discovery and a testament to the positive influence of his relationship with Carthen.
