Let's be real for a second. When a guy walks into a villa carrying a whip and wearing leather, you don’t exactly expect him to be the most wholesome, grounded person in the room. But Pepe Garcia-Gonzalez—simply known as Pepe to the fans—ended up being exactly that. Since the cameras stopped rolling on Love Island USA Season 7, everyone has been asking the same thing: where is Pepe from Love Island from?
It’s not just a question about his GPS coordinates. People are fascinated because he feels... different. He’s got that European polish mixed with a West Coast chill that made him stand out from the usual crop of influencers.
The Dual Roots of Pepe Garcia-Gonzalez
Pepe wasn't born in the States. He was actually born in Madrid, Spain. You can hear it in the way he carries himself—there’s a certain old-school gentlemanly vibe that the Reddit fans obsessed over during his time in Fiji. But he didn't stay in Spain forever. He was raised in Los Angeles, California, which explains why his accent is pure SoCal even if his manners feel like they belong in a European villa.
Honestly, this mix of cultures is his secret sauce. He’s 27 years old and stands at a solid 6'3". That height isn't just for show; it's the result of a serious athletic background that took him all over the world before he ever stepped foot on a reality TV set.
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A Professional Journey Across the Map
Before he was a bombshell, Pepe was a pro. He started his basketball journey at California State Fullerton, playing college ball before taking his talents international. For about six years, he lived the life of a professional athlete, playing in leagues across Spain and Mexico.
When he retired from the court around the 2022-2023 season, he didn't just sit around. He went back to Los Angeles and got to work. He opened his own gym, focusing on customized strength and nutrition, and started an after-school program for kids. He’s basically the guy your mom wants you to bring home—he’s a "dog dad," a business owner, and apparently, he even knows how to sail and play multiple instruments.
What Happened with Iris?
The "where is he from" question usually leads to "where is he now and is he still with Iris Kendall?"
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The short answer? It’s complicated, or rather, it’s over. Pepe and Iris were the "friends-to-lovers" success story of Season 7, finishing in fourth place. They both lived in the L.A. area, which made fans think they actually had a shot at surviving the "real world" away from the Peacock cameras. For a while, they did. They were spotted on the TMZ tour bus together and seemed to be going strong through the summer of 2025.
But by late 2025, the honeymoon phase hit a wall. Pepe confirmed the breakup, and despite some nasty rumors floating around the internet, he’s been firm about the fact that cheating wasn't the cause. He’s even been seen hanging out with Season 5 winner Marco Donatelli in Beverly Hills, navigating the weird post-villa fame together.
Why Pepe Still Matters in the Love Island Lore
Most bombshells come in, cause a week of drama, and vanish. Pepe stayed because he was authentic. He was the guy who would turn down three different women—Huda, Andreina, and Gracyn—because he simply wasn't feeling a genuine connection. In a show built on manufactured drama, that kind of honesty is rare.
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If you’re looking for him today, you’ll likely find him back in California, probably at his gym or hanging out with his dog. He’s admitted in recent interviews that dating has been "tough" since the show. It turns out that being a famous "gentleman" makes it harder to find someone who likes you for you, not just for the Instagram followers.
Living the Post-Villa Life
If you want to keep up with Pepe’s journey or get some fitness inspiration, his path is pretty easy to follow.
- Check out his fitness programs: He still runs his training business in Southern California.
- Follow the "Dog Dad" content: His Instagram is less "influencer" and more "real life," featuring a lot of his workouts and his pup.
- Revisit Season 7: If you missed his entry, go back to Episode 9 of Love Island USA Season 7 on Peacock to see that leather outfit in all its glory.
- Keep an eye on the alumni circle: He remains close with several cast members, proving that while he didn't find a wife, he definitely found a brotherhood.
Pepe Garcia-Gonzalez managed to do the impossible: he went on a reality show and came out looking like a better person than when he went in. Whether he’s in Madrid or L.A., he’s staying true to the "wholesome bombshell" tag the fans gave him.