Illustration by Pop Culture Pit
Love Island is losing its host. Maya Jama announced on Instagram Sunday that she is stepping down after three years and nine series fronting ITV’s dating show, saying it’s “my time to throw myself into something new.”
Key Takeaways
- Jama, 32, confirmed her exit in an Instagram reel of her Love Island highlights on Nov. 8.
- ITV thanked her, calling her “a fantastic and much loved host,” according to the BBC.
- She took over from Laura Whitmore in 2023 and also hosted Aftersun, Love Island Games and Love Island All Stars.
- No replacement has been named. Love Island: All Stars heads to South Africa in January.
Watch Maya Jama’s announcement on Instagram
mayajama · Instagram · Nov. 8. Her goodbye reel and statement.
The Full Story
“What an incredible era and what an unforgettable time I’ve had,” Jama wrote. “But as all good things must come to an end, it’s my time to step down as the host of my beloved Love Island.” She thanked fans and the production team, adding, “I started hosting the show aged 28 and during the 9 incredible series met the most wonderful humans along the way. I’ve loved every slow-mo walk, fire pit and live show.”
The timing tracks with a big year. Jama made the final of The Celebrity Traitors’ second season as the last original Traitor standing and made her acting debut in season two of Guy Ritchie’s The Gentlemen. The Times has speculated she could command big money in her next deal, per the BBC.
Exit rumors have trailed her for years. This summer she told Deadline that reports of her leaving were “fake news” and that she decides at the end of each series whether to return. This time, she decided to go.