Katie Price has launched a bid to become the next host of ITV's Love Island, just days after Maya Jama announced she was stepping down from the role. The 48-year-old reality star took to social media to appeal directly to ITV for the job, tagging the official Love Island account in an Instagram post that read: "I would love to present Love Island."
Maya Jama's exit and Netflix deal
Maya Jama announced on Sunday, November 8, that she had decided to step down as host of the ITV dating show after three years. She told fans it was "time to throw myself into something new," and has since confirmed she has signed a multi-project deal with Netflix.
Jama had presented Love Island since 2023 and hosted spin-offs including Love Island: Games and Love Island: All Stars. She confirmed the Netflix deal on Monday, November 9, sharing a screenshot of a Variety article that reported she had a "number of new projects in the works" with the streaming service.
Price's long-running interest in the role
Price's campaign comes just weeks after her split from ex Lee Andrews following a whirlwind marriage. The mother of five has previously expressed interest in hosting the show on several occasions. She had eyed up the job before late host Caroline Flack stepped down, posting a YouTube video in which she said: "Sorry Caroline Flack but I would love to have your job. I would love to do Love Island."
When Maya's predecessor, Laura Whitmore, stepped down as host in 2022, Price asked her followers whether she should take over the role.
Netflix's welcome for Jama
In her announcement, Jama said: "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." She added: "I can't give too much away just yet, but I'm so excited for this next chapter. Watch this space!"
Netflix's vice president of UK content, Anne Mensah, said: "Maya is fabulous. 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."
Price has messaged the official Love Island account on Instagram in her bid to become host, with the situation now resting on ITV's response to her public appeal.
