Maya Jama speaks out on quitting Love Island UK after hosting 9 seasons

Following three years at the helm of the UK's most popular reality TV show, Maya Jama is stepping down as the host of Love Island.

The presenter, 32, shared the news on Instagram on Sunday (8 Nov), posting a video montage of some of her most memorable moments from the villa alongside an emotional statement thanking fans and the show's production team.

For those in need of a reminder, Bristol-born Jama took over hosting duties from Laura Whitmore in 2023, having previously been a fan favourite to front the ITV2 dating series.

Reflecting on her time presenting the show, she wrote: "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."

Jama took over from Laura Whitmore in 2023 (ITV)

Jama went on to say: "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 former radio presenter added: "The show really does belong to the people who watch it and embrace it year after year."

Jama also paid tribute to the show's production team, thanking the people who work behind the scenes to bring the popular reality series to life.

She continued: "I started hosting the show aged 28 and during the nine 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."

Jama recently appeared on Celebrity Traitors (BBC)

An ITV spokesperson also shared their appreciation for Jama's contribution, 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."

Her departure comes shortly after her appearance on BBC reality competition Celebrity Traitors, where she made it all the way to the final after being selected as a Traitor in the first episode.

Before Jama took over, Love Island was hosted by Whitmore, who stepped into the role in 2020 following the departure of the late Caroline Flack. Caroline had fronted the show since its hugely successful 2015 reboot.

Jama time on the show also saw her become a familiar face across its spin-offs, including Love Island: All Stars and Love Island Games.