Maya Jama has announced she is stepping down as host of Love Island, saying it is time to "throw myself into something new". The 32-year-old has presented the ITV reality show since 2023, when she replaced Irish host Laura Whitmore, and has also fronted the Love Island: Games and Love Island: All Stars spin-offs.
Jama thanks fans and team
In a post on Instagram, Jama said: "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."
Jama also thanked the programme's "incredible" production team, who she said brought "this iconic show to life".
A leap into something new
Reflecting on her time on the show, Jama said: "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."
She continued: "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. While my own Love Island journey has come to an end, I wish the show and the team all the success in the world, I'll be cheering you lot on from the sidelines forever."
The post was accompanied by a video of Jama's highlights on the show.
Recent Celebrity Traitors appearance
The announcement comes after Jama appeared as a contestant on BBC reality gameshow Celebrity Traitors last month, where she was chosen as a traitor in its first episode. She survived on the show until its final, where she was banished from the castle by fellow traitor King Kenny, after he had the deciding vote on her fate.
Despite comedian Romesh Ranganathan and actor Sebastian Croft winning the show's £83,000 prize pot for their charities, Jama still donated an undisclosed amount to her charity Action for Children. ITV has been contacted for comment.
