Temptation Island is back on our screens this March. And, while it’s not really giving ‘wholesome’ in general, there’s one aspect of the Netflix show we can collectively agree is reason enough to watch – and that’s it’s host Mark L Walberg. By the looks of X, people adore him, and it’s no wonder because the advice he’s dishing out at those bonfires, well, it’s second to none.
Hang on, Temptation Island’s Mark isn’t a real therapist?
We’ve seen multiple moments around the bonfire where Mark has been a solid rock for the cast to lean on.
Not only that, but the couples are learning from the Temptation Island host. He’s coming out with mindful gems like he’s versed in therapy.
But, it turns out, he isn’t actually a therapist.
The Netflix show host spoke to TV Insider in 2021 and said: “I’m a game show host. I’m not a therapist. But I am a husband, a father, a son and all these things.”
He explains how he “brings his authentic self” to the show, adding: “When I’m sitting across this bonfire with these young people grappling with all these questions and problems, I can’t help but coach them through things based on what I know from my own life.”
Mark continues: “I tell them the advice I give is exactly what they paid for it… The only thing I can bring to this is I’ve failed more than they’ve tried, so maybe I can help.”
Mark Walberg is SO good at bonfires, giving these boys the therapy they need, changing lives out here! My man! #temptationisland pic.twitter.com/dxpQg09P2D
— Meredith K (@MeredithBklyn) March 13, 2025
OK, he’s kind of earned it on Temptation Island
Although Temptation Island star Mark isn’t technically a qualified therapist, he does seem to have earned his authority as some kind of coach.
He’s been hosting the show since 2001 when it first began. Over 20 years of experience on the show puts anyone in pretty good stead for giving couples’ advice.
Speaking to Tudum about guiding the contestants through their journey, Mark said he has a go-to method: “Listen.”
“For me, it’s all [about] listening. There isn’t a script we’re following. There’s nothing planned. I’ve chosen over the years not to look at the clips before [the bonfire], because I want to be trusted by them.
“I want to be able to sit with them and then ask questions — either gently or firmly — to see if there is something for us to learn.
“I’ve seen reactions that are crazy and then some that you think are going to be crazy, and they’re [actually] relieved. For me, the prep is no prep. Just be in the moment,” he says.
Temptation Island is available on Netflix now. For all the latest Netflix news, drops, quizzes and memes like The Holy Church of Netflix on Facebook.