Maya Jama quits Love Island after three years

She's hosted the show since 2023, taking over from Laura Whitmore. However, Maya Jama has now announced that she's stepping down from her role as host of the popular dating show Love Island.

Why is Maya leaving Love Island?

On the evening of Sunday 8th November 2026, Maya took to her social media pages to announce her departure, revealing 'all good things must come to an end'.

Revealing her reasons for her departure, Maya said in a written statement: '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.

'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.

'Biggest thanks to the incredible production team, I’ve seen firsthand how you work your asses off for months every year to bring this iconic show to life.

'I started hosting the show aged 28 and during the 9 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.

'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. ❤️'

Former contestants and fans of the show were quick to comment on Maya's post.

Hits Radio's Sam Thompson wrote: 'Learned a lot watching you every Sunday mate, can’t wait to see what epic thing you do next ❤️'. (sic)

Series 12 winner Toni Laites wrote: 'the end of an ERA 🥹🥂🫶🏻', with Scott van-der-Sluis adding: 'Nice to see you in 3 different villas in 3 different countries.🇪🇸 🇫🇯 🇿🇦 Icon👏🏼'. (sic)

The Celebrity Traitors host Claudia Winkleman then commented: '❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️', with Samie Elishi adding: 'The best!!🥹 you’ll be missed!!'. (sic)

Who is replacing her?

ITV/STV bosses are yet to announce Maya's replacement, but already rumours are rife about who could replace her. Former Love Island stars such as Olivia Attwood, Molly-Mae Hague, Olivia Bowen and Maura Higgins are all reportedly being considered.

With a new series set to land in early 2027, we suspect it won't be too long until the new host is announced.

When is Love Island back on TV?

The fourth series of Love Island: All Stars is due to begin in January 2027, with series 14 of Love Island also scheduled for summer 2027.

READ MORE: Applications are now open for Love Island 2027

Maya was first announced as the new host of Love Island back in October 2022, taking over from Laura Whitmore.

In addition to hosting the main series since summer 2023, Maya also presented Love Island Games in August 2023 and October 2025, and Love Island: All Stars in 2024, 2025 and 2026.

Author: Alex Ross

Alex Ross is a Digital Content Editor across Rayo brands, including the Hits Radio Network, Greatest Hits Radio, KISS, Cool FM and Magic Radio. After beginning her career as a Marketing Intern with Bauer Media in 2016, she transitioned into digital editorial and has spent the past decade creating engaging content for millions of readers. Whether it’s reality shows, sitcoms, gritty crime dramas or hard-hitting documentaries, Alex is an expert in all things TV, as well as knowing the ins and outs of celebrities.