Maya Jama Confirms Leaving Love Island for New Netflix Partnership

Maya Jama has confirmed she is leaving her role as the host of Love Island, announcing a brand-new partnership with Netflix.

The 32-year-old presenter revealed on Instagram that she is stepping away from the ITV reality series, stating it was time to “throw myself into something new.” Jama took over hosting duties from Laura Whitmore in early 2023 for the show’s ninth series and subsequently presented the spin-offs Love Island: Games and Love Island: All Stars.

In her departure announcement, Jama expressed gratitude for her time on the programme, mentioning that she started hosting at age 28 and met wonderful people across nine series.

An ITV spokesperson stated that Jama had been a fantastic and much-loved host, thanking her for her contributions over the last three years. Following her exit, various outlets reported that potential replacements for the upcoming Love Island: All Stars series include former contestants such as Maura Higgins, Olivia Attwood, Chloe Burrows, and radio presenter Vick Hope.

Instagram

Shortly after announcing her departure from reality television, Jama shared a selfie holding a mug branded with the Netflix logo alongside a screenshot of a Variety report detailing her new projects with the streaming service. Digital Spy noted that the deal marks her return to the streamer following her acting debut as Aisha in season two of The Gentlemen, which was released in September.

Netflix’s vice president of UK content, Anne Mensah, stated: 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.

Why Maya Jama is leaving 'Love Island'

Confirming the move on social media with the caption “Cling to the next chapter,” Jama told her followers: 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. Specific details regarding her upcoming projects remain under wraps.

Before achieving widespread prominence on screen, Jama moved to London at age 16 to pursue work in the entertainment industry. She began her career as a presenter for MTV, co-hosted Trending Live on 4Music and Cannonball on ITV, and fronted a show on BBC Radio 1 broadcasting on Fridays and Saturdays.

Her broadcasting CV also includes presenting The Circle and Glow Up: Britain’s Next Make-Up Star, joining The Masked Singer as a panellist in 2025, and competing this year on the second season of The Celebrity Traitors, where she played as a traitor and reached the final before being banished by her fellow Traitor.

Maya Jama Confirms Leaving Love Island for New Netflix Partnership — Photo: The Guardian

Following her social media announcement, well-wishes poured in from industry peers. Big Brother host AJ Odudu wrote: My Goat. Congratulations. Former Strictly Come Dancing professional dancer Oti Mabuse added: Yes girl.

Disclaimer: The cultural analyses and financial data presented in this article are based on available public records and industry metrics at the time of publication.