Jose “Pepe” Garcia‑Gonzalez, born March 20, 1998, is 27 years old as of mid-2025. Originally from Madrid, Spain, Pepe moved to Los Angeles when he was three and was raised in Southern California. At a towering 6 ft 3 in (190–191 cm), the former pro basketball player turned elite personal trainer entered the Love Island USA villa on Day 9 and finished in fourth place alongside Iris Kendall when the season ended on Day 32.
From Pro Hooper to Gym Owner
Before reality TV, Pepe’s life revolved around basketball. After college ball at Cal State Fullerton, he played professionally overseas—from Spain to Mexico—before retiring in 2023. Upon returning to L.A., he opened his own gym and after-school fitness program, combining his athletic background with coaching.
His social media profile lists him as a “retired pro hooper,” and his real-life transition from athlete to entrepreneur reflects his focus on health, fitness, and community-building.
Villa Story: Late Connection & Heartfelt Finale
Pepe entered the villa during Episode 9 as a Casa Amor bombshell. He initially formed bonds with Cierra Ortega and Hannah Fields, but a public vote paired him with Hannah in Episode 12. Their budding romance ended when Hannah was eliminated in Episode 18—leaving Pepe heartbroken and suddenly single in the villa.
During Casa Amor, he coupled briefly with bombshell Gracyn Blackmore, but later revealed he still struggled emotionally with Hannah’s exit. When their coupling ended, Pepe remained single during the recoupling that saw Gracyn exit the island.
Then, during a late recoupling event in Episode 30, Pepe and Iris Kendall became a pair. Their chemistry solidified in the final challenges, including “Family Guy” baby-names and sweet affectionate moments. Though they arrived together only late in the season, they became surprisingly strong. They finished the series together in fourth place on Day 32, behind the final three couples.
Physical Presence & Persona
- Age: 27 (born March 20, 1998)
- Height: ~6 ft 3 in (190–191 cm); weight estimated ~185 lb (84 kg), based on athlete profiles and modeling cues
- Profession: Former pro basketball player, personal trainer, gym owner, influencer
He’s described as calm, mature, and protective. His athletic build and executive presence complemented the high-drama villa, offering stability and emotional strength in late-season dynamics.
Estimated Net Worth (2025)
Pepe has not shared public financial details. Considering his basketball salary overseas, gym ownership in L.A., fitness content monetization, and influencer partnerships, a speculative net worth range of $200,000 to $400,000 is reasonable. This accounts for income sources post-athletic career and growing media visibility.
Pepe Garcia at a Glance
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Jose “Pepe” Garcia‑Gonzalez |
| Date of Birth | March 20, 1998 |
| Age (mid‑2025) | 27 years old |
| Height | ~6 ft 3 in (190–191 cm); ~185 lb (84 kg) |
| Hometown | Madrid, Spain (raised in Los Angeles, CA) |
| Occupation | Former pro athlete; gym owner; personal trainer |
| Villa Entry | Day 9, Casa Amor bombshell |
| Romance Path | Hannah Fields → Gracyn Blackmore → Iris Kendall |
| Final Placement | Fourth place with Iris Kendall (Day 32) |
| Estimated Net Worth | ~$200K–$400K (approximate) |
Post‑Villa Status & Public Image
Pepe and Iris Kendall’s relationship was revealed to be real off-camera. In exclusive interviews, Iris confirmed they had not seen other people after the villa and were exploring a grounded relationship in L.A. Despite public speculation over Iris’s reunion with TJ Palma, both Pepe and Iris emphasized mutual honesty and respect. Their real-world journey remains private and cautious, though the connection that formed in Fiji continues into mid-2025.
Fans also reacted strongly to a brief on-screen moment during the finale: when Huda Mustafa jokingly asked Pepe for a kiss after he kissed Iris on the head, Pepe gave a hilarious—but slightly uncomfortable—side-eye. The moment trended online and highlighted his dry humor and natural composure.
❓ FAQ: Pepe Garcia
Q: How old is Pepe Garcia?
A: He was born on March 20, 1998, making him 27 years old as of mid‑2025.
Q: How tall is he?
A: Approximately 6 ft 3 in (190–191 cm) with an athletic build (~84 kg).
Q: What did he do before joining Love Island?
A: Pepe played pro basketball overseas (Spain, Mexico), then transitioned into owning a gym and fitness coaching in Los Angeles.
Q: Who did he couple with on the show?
A: Initially paired with Hannah Fields, then briefly with Gracyn Blackmore, before forming a late-season couple with Iris Kendall and reaching the finale together.
Q: Where did he finish in Season 7?
A: Pepe and Iris finished in fourth place, exiting on Day 32, the same day as the finale.
Q: Is he still dating Iris?
A: As of July 2025, they are reportedly exploring a relationship off-camera, committed to honesty and avoiding external pressure. Neither is seeing other people, though no formal confirmation of dating status has been made.
Q: What is his net worth?
A: Not publicly verified. Estimated between $200,000 and $400,000, based on former pro sports earnings, business ventures, and fitness brand opportunities.
Final Reflection
Pepe Garcia arrived in the villa as a statuesque, athletic bombshell—but left as a nuanced human who balanced ambition with emotional integrity. At 27, with a 6’3″ frame and professional athlete history, he looked the part—but his journey into post-show romance with Iris and his personal discipline elevated his legacy. A gym owner, former athlete, and emotional anchor in a tumultuous cast, Pepe reminds viewers that vulnerability and grounded ambition can shine even brighter than scripted drama. From MVP in life to fourth‑place finisher, his story suggests love can emerge later—and with more substance.