CBS announced Wednesday it has acquired the U.S. format rights to British dating series “Love Island,” which has become a cultural phenomenon and whose fourth-season finale last week was the most-watched program ever on the ITV2 network.

On “Love Island,” singles come to a villa in a beautiful tropical location, seeking a partner. Contestants, dubbed “Islanders,” form alliances and begin relationships. Viewers have the opportunity to shape events on screen as they watch the relationships develop, and ultimately choose one couple as the winners who receive a cash prize.

“Love Island” is likely to air in the spring or summer of 2019.

“`Love Island’ has been a massive success overseas,” CBS Senior Vice President, Alternative Programming Sharon Vuong said. “It’s currently seen, or about to premiere in several European countries as well as Australia.

“Having seen the reaction of audiences across the pond and around the world to this most recent season, we expect American viewers will be captivated by this engaging format. Additionally, `Love Island’ is more than a pop sensation; this series has generated compelling sociological think pieces in major publications here and abroad.”

Said David George, CEO, ITV America, parent company of the show’s producer, ITV Entertainment, “As a format, `Love Island’ breaks the mold with high levels of viewer interactivity and participation that influence the content of the show in a way that’s extremely addictive.

“It’s a cultural phenomenon that builds anticipation with every episode and creates appointment viewing, a pretty hard thing to do in today’s TV landscape.”

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