Maya Jama has announced she is stepping down as the host of ITV's Love Island, saying it is time to "throw myself into something new". The 32-year-old presenter, who has fronted the reality show since 2023, made the announcement in a post on Instagram.
Three Years of Hosting
Jama took over from Irish host Laura Whitmore in 2023 and has since presented the main series along with the spin-offs Love Island: Games and Love Island: All Stars. In her Instagram post, she reflected on her time with the show, thanking fans and the production team.
She wrote: "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."
Gratitude and Farewell
Jama expressed gratitude to those who supported her hosting the show, saying, "I wouldn't change a thing." She also thanked the fans for their messages and viewership, noting that "the show really does belong to the people who watch it and embrace it year after year."
She added: "I started hosting the show aged 28 and during the nine 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."
ITV Response and Recent Traitors Appearance
An ITV spokesperson said: "Maya has been a fantastic and much loved host on Love Island – we thank her for everything she has brought to the show over the last three years and wish her every continued success."
The announcement follows Jama's appearance as a contestant on the BBC reality gameshow Celebrity Traitors last month, where she was selected as a traitor in the first episode. She survived until the final, where she was banished by fellow traitor King Kenny. Although comedians Romesh Ranganathan and actor Sebastian Croft won the show's £83,000 prize pot for their charities, Jama still donated an undisclosed amount to her charity Action for Children.
Love Island, which has aired since its revival in 2015, follows contestants living in isolation and coupling up to avoid elimination. Prior to Jama, Whitmore hosted from 2020, succeeding the late Caroline Flack, who had helmed the show since its reboot.
