Maya Jama Quits ‘Love Island’ UK After 9 Seasons

Maya Jama is stepping down as host of Love Island UK after nine series, bringing her three-year stint on the ITV dating show to an end. The 32-year-old presenter announced her departure on November 8, 2026, in an Instagram post accompanied by a video montage of her time with the franchise.

“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,” Jama wrote.

She thanked the people who supported her appointment, the show’s viewers and the production team responsible for making the series. Jama also acknowledged the work involved in producing the programme each year and expressed her gratitude to those who had been part of her experience.

Photo: ITV2

Reflecting on her time as host, Jama revealed that she started the role at 28 and had met many wonderful people during her nine-series tenure. She also recalled familiar features of the programme, including the slow-motion entrances, fire pit conversations and live broadcasts.

Explaining her decision, Jama said she wanted to pursue new opportunities. “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,” she wrote.

She did not disclose which projects she plans to take on next, leaving her immediate television plans unclear. However, she made it clear that she would continue supporting the programme and its team after her departure.

An ITV spokesperson also acknowledged her exit, saying: “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.”

Photo: Getty Images

Jama joined Love Island in 2023, replacing Laura Whitmore. She went on to present the main summer series, the winter edition and Love Island: All Stars, becoming a familiar face across the franchise.

Her departure leaves ITV with the task of appointing a new presenter ahead of the next series. Jama’s successor will follow in the footsteps of Caroline Flack, Laura Whitmore and Jama, who have each fronted the revived dating show.

After nine series, Jama is bringing her time as the face of Love Island UK to a close. Her next move remains undisclosed, but she has indicated that she is ready to take on new opportunities.