Maya Jama has spoken about the challenges of swapping her usual presenting role for a contestant spot on The Celebrity Traitors, admitting she found it hard not being in control. The 32-year-old TV presenter and actress confirmed a deal with Netflix this week, less than a day after announcing she was stepping down as Love Island host.
Stepping Away from the Presenter's Chair
In The Life Issue of DSECTION magazine, Jama discussed her career, ambitions and time on the BBC show. Known for her confidence on camera, she said taking part was a very different experience.
"I'm so used to being the presenter and having some control over what's going on, so being on the other side of things was a completely different experience," she said.
"I loved the first series, so when the opportunity came up, I thought, why not? Although I don't think I realised quite how intense it would be!" she added. "I'm normally quite chilled out, but that environment definitely pushes you."
Leaving Love Island and New Projects
Earlier this week, Jama announced she was leaving Love Island after three years and nine series to pursue other career adventures. The Bristol native is also filming Series 3 of The Gentleman after landing her first major acting role in Guy Ritchie's Netflix gangster series.
"I've definitely still got that hunger. I don't think that ever really goes away when you're naturally ambitious. I still get excited by new opportunities, and I still want to push myself and see how far I can go," she said.
"Being able to choose what I do, who I work with, where I spend my time and who I spend it with. That's a massive luxury, and I don't take it for granted."
Netflix Deal and Future Plans
As Jama's six-figure deal with Netflix was announced, Anne Mensah, Netflix's vice president of U.K. content, said: "She has an infectious energy and an ability to captivate audiences. We adored working with her on The Gentlemen, and we're absolutely delighted for her to be an even bigger part of the Netflix family."
Of the new venture, Jama added: "I'm absolutely buzzing to be working with Netflix! There are some really exciting things coming and I can't wait for everyone to see what we've been working on. I can't give too much away just yet, but I'm so excited for this next chapter. Watch this space!"
Auditions for Jama's Love Island replacement are said to be starting almost immediately, with the next instalment of the show set to air in just a matter of weeks. In her exit statement, Jama wrote on Instagram: "What an incredible era and what an unforgettable time I've had, it's been far too much fun to put into words or a video..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 added: "Firstly, I want to thank all of the people who rooted so hard for me to host the show in the first place. I wouldn't change a thing. To the fans of the show, thank you for every supportive message and every single time you've tuned in during my time as host, I'm forever grateful to you all. The show really does belong to the people who watch it and embrace it year after year."
"Biggest thanks to the incredible production team, I've seen firsthand how you work your asses off for months every year to bring this iconic show to life. 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. I'll forever be grateful for the experience. But I've always believed that to truly grow, you have to take a leap every now and then, and now is my time to throw myself into something new."
