Maya Jama has announced she is stepping down as the host of Love Island after presenting nine series of the popular ITV dating show. Jama shared her decision in a statement on Instagram on Sunday, calling her time on the show "unforgettable."
She took over hosting duties in January 2023, succeeding Laura Whitmore. In her statement, Jama expressed gratitude to those who supported her hosting the show and to the fans for tuning in. She also thanked the production team for their hard work in bringing the show to life.
Jama, who began hosting the show at age 28, reflected on the "slow-mo walk, fire pit and live show" moments she experienced and stated that she will "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," Jama wrote. "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."
An ITV spokesperson commented, "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."