Love Island USA producer dies suddenly during filming

A Love Island USA executive producer has tragically died in Fiji, amid the filming of season eight of the dating show.

ITV America and Peacock confirmed the sad news on Monday (June 15) that James Barker, 40, suffered an ‘unexpected medical emergency’ last week.

However, no further details have been released surrounding the circumstances of his death.

In a statement shared with The Independent, both networks said: “James’ unimaginable loss has been deeply felt across not just the entire Love Island USA production, but throughout all of ITV and Peacock.

“He was a beloved and greatly valued member of our collective family whose kindness, talent, and dedication left an indelible mark on all of us and everyone who had the privilege of knowing and working with him.”

A Love Island USA producer has died unexpectedly in Fiji, where the show is filmed (Peacock)

In his free time away from Love Island, Barker worked as a DJ, performing around the world.

The statement continued: “We extend our heartfelt condolences to James’ family, friends, and colleagues.

“His ubiquitous contributions to the show covered both production and post-production, as well as oversight of the series’ distinct soundtrack.

“James’ passion for music was not only core to his career but shaped his life. He spent 20 years DJ’ing across the country, building a dedicated following of fans.”

The officials confirmed that Tuesday’s episode of Love Island USA will include a tribute to Barker, who has worked on the reality TV show since 2020.

ITV and Peacock also confirmed that heartbreakingly, Barker leaves behind his partner Adam.

Whom he met at a show.

The statement said that ‘their shared love of music was at the center of the life they built together - both at home and experiencing music all over the world’.

Barker is survived by his partner Adam (Instagram/chaoticdj)

The tragedy came just one week after Barker posted on Instagram about his love for Fiji and working on the show.

Alongside a photo of himself and some of his crewmates, he quipped, “We come to Fiji for magic. We come to @loveislandusa to laugh, to cry, to care.

“Our islanders feel like the best part of us, and stories feel perfect and powerful… because here… they are.”

Barker continued: “Hope you’re all enjoying the new season brought to you by a huge squad of brilliant people, including the three models standing beside me.”

The TV producer had an impressive career, as he entered the industry in 2011 at Leftfield Pictures, working on shows including Pawn Stars, Forged in Fire, and Counting Cars.

He also produced the huge hit Queer Eye for ITV America, before beginning his journey as an executive producer on Love Island USA, Love Island Games, and Love Island: Beyond the Villa.