Podcast Summary: The Viall Files Episode E969 – Going Deeper with Iris and Pepe

Release Date: July 18, 2025

Introduction

In this special episode of The Viall Files, hosts Nick Viall and Natalie Joy delve into an in-depth conversation with Iris and Pepe, a beloved couple from the reality TV show Love Island. The episode, titled "Going Deeper with Iris and Pepe," offers listeners an intimate look into the dynamics of their relationship both on and off the villa, shedding light on their journey amidst the intense environment of reality television.

Exciting Announcements and Show Promotions

Before diving into the main discussion, Nick Viall shares exciting news about his wife's involvement in a new Netflix reality TV dating show:

Nick Viall [02:07]: "Yesterday my wife is the host of a new Netflix reality TV dating show we both are for sure yes we are definitely hosting Age of Attraction coming soon on Netflix."

Natalie Joy adds her enthusiasm, highlighting their collective pride and the collaborative experience of hosting:

Natalie Joy [02:56]: "Really fun I'm so excited for everyone to see it...the cast was really great, crew was really great."

They emphasize the promising nature of the show, anticipating a mix of drama, awkward moments, and heartfelt love stories.

Introducing Iris and Pepe

Nick and Natalie express their admiration for Iris and Pepe, noting their popularity and the anticipation surrounding their appearance on the podcast:

Nick Viall [04:07]: "We love to have these conversations always... we just want to get to know you guys. We've been such fans of you both as individuals."

Natalie Joy outlines the busy week filled with Love Island stars, emphasizing the significance of Iris and Pepe's story:

Natalie Joy [04:11]: "We loved hearing more about them, I think you will too."

Experience on Love Island

Iris and Pepe recount their initial experiences upon entering the Love Island villa, addressing the social dynamics and their personal interactions:

Pepe [05:37]: "I had never seen the show before... I posted a TikTok and it kind of went viral."

Iris shares her perspective on integrating into the villa community, striving to maintain friendliness despite the competitive environment:

Iris [06:44]: "I just want to talk to everybody even if you're my friend because if you don't talk to people you're walking around the villa and you're like hi and it's just like awkward."

The couple discusses the strategic pairing by producers, highlighting the challenges and uncertainties that came with being placed together amidst existing drama:

Nick Viall [07:15]: "You were literally like the sacrificial lamb being thrust into being paired with Iris."

Navigating Relationships and Drama

Iris elaborates on her experience with the on-screen drama, particularly the tumultuous relationship between Hoda and Jeremiah, and how it affected her introduction to the show:

Iris [07:49]: "I was afraid... I just wanted to explore someone else."

Pepe reflects on his initial interactions and how his genuine care for Iris and others set the foundation for their relationship:

Pepe [10:46]: "People were really drawn to you... you have such unique character about you."

Building a Genuine Connection

The conversation shifts to how Iris and Pepe developed their relationship organically, emphasizing mutual respect and friendship before romance:

Iris [34:03]: "We've had conversations about our past relationships... we focus on what we can do together."

Pepe adds that their bond was rooted in friendship and mutual support, allowing their relationship to flourish naturally:

Pepe [35:34]: "We just really focus on what we can do together because every relationship's completely different."

Handling External Pressures and Public Perception

Iris addresses the challenges of maintaining their relationship under the scrutiny of fans and media, particularly regarding past relationships and on-screen interactions:

Iris [25:47]: "I need to just focus on like I have one week left here and I just need to forgive and forget."

Pepe discusses the importance of open communication and staying true to their feelings amidst the pressures:

Pepe [36:39]: "We're really enjoying our time here together... we want to explore on the outside too."

Personal Growth and Future Aspirations

Both Iris and Pepe emphasize their commitment to personal growth and building a strong foundation for their relationship outside the villa:

Iris [38:10]: "We had really deep conversations about our past relationships and how we grew up."

Pepe [38:27]: "We focus on date one person and see if we want to be with each other for a very long time."

They express optimism about their future together, unburdened by the villa's constraints.

Relationship Dynamics and Love Languages

The couple explores their love languages, highlighting physical touch as a primary means of expressing affection:

Pepe [57:53]: "Love language is a funny thing... hers was definitely physical touch from the beginning and mine is as well."

Iris shares how the villa environment helped her rediscover her appreciation for physical affection:

Iris [58:07]: "I realized I miss holding hands and the simple gestures of affection."

Overcoming Challenges and Maintaining Authenticity

Nick and Natalie commend Iris and Pepe for their authentic approach to relationships, free from drama and built on genuine care:

Nick Viall [62:00]: "You guys were a slow burn but in the best possible way... poetic in that."

The couple acknowledges the challenges posed by the show's dynamics but remains steadfast in their commitment to each other.

Closing Remarks and Future Endeavors

As the conversation wraps up, Nick and Natalie express their admiration and support for Iris and Pepe, anticipating their continued success both individually and as a couple:

Natalie Joy [64:36]: "We are huge fans of the two of y’all. We can't wait to see your relationship unfold."

Iris and Pepe reciprocate the gratitude, affirming their dedication to nurturing their relationship beyond the reality TV spotlight.

Conclusion

This episode of The Viall Files provides a heartfelt exploration of Iris and Pepe's relationship journey on Love Island. Through candid discussions and personal anecdotes, listeners gain insight into the complexities of maintaining authenticity and love amidst the pressures of reality television. Iris and Pepe's story serves as a testament to the power of genuine connection and the importance of navigating relationships with respect and honesty.

Notable Quotes:

• Nick Viall [02:07]: "My wife is the host of a new Netflix reality TV dating show... Age of Attraction coming soon on Netflix."

• Iris [07:49]: "I just want to talk to everybody... if you don't talk to people you're walking around the villa and you're like hi and it's just like awkward."

• Pepe [35:34]: "We just really focus on what we can do together because every relationship's completely different."

• Iris [58:07]: "I realized I miss holding hands and the simple gestures of affection."

Note: This summary excludes advertisements, intros, outros, and non-content sections to focus solely on the meaningful discussions and insights shared by Iris and Pepe.