A Nine spokesperson, however, said the episode's numbers were on par with their projections, and rejected any notion the show would shift timeslots, or even move to its main channel for more exposure.

"We are really happy with the performance and noise around Love Island Australia," the spokesperson said.

"This was always a multichannel commission and will remain on 9Go and 9Now. We are excited for the possibility this presents our business, particularly with its performance among 16-39s."

In another odd wrinkle, the local debut was heavily criticised by those who did tune in, with many turned off by the dubious focus on sex, scandal and almost-bare bodies.

"It's not fun trashy. It's just actual trash," one viral response on Twitter went.

Even reality TV alumni Georgia Love, the former Bachelorette contestant, called the show "absolutely abhorrent".

"I am so appalled by Love Island, I'm not even going to justify a worthwhile tweet about it," she wrote on Twitter, without a hint of irony.

Host Monk, perhaps echoing Nine's higher-ups, pled for patience.

"Whatever impressions you've got now of these guys... Just wait until you get to know them properly. Trust me!" she told the show's followers.