It’s official.
Following Laura Whitmore’s departure from the role after just two years, ITVhave confirmed that Bristol-born presenter Maya Jama will be the new host of Love Island.
In a statement, ITVsaid that the 28-year-old star would front the ninth season of the popular dating show in South Africa, from early 2023.
On Instagram, Jama and the Love Island account revealed the news with a video featuring her alongside of the show’s infamous suitcases, captioned: “Okay, the rumours are true.”
Known for her presenting roles on TV shows such as Glow Up and Save Our Summer, Jama was amongst the names hotly-tipped to take over the show after months of online speculation. Radio presenter Vick Hope, this year’s Love Island winner, Ekin-Su Culculoglu, and ex-contestant Zara McDermott were also among the rumoured hosts.
Jama said in a press release that she was excited about her new role and couldn’t wait to jump in. “I’ve always been such a massive Love Island fan and I’m so excited to be hosting one of the nation’s favourite shows,” she said. “I can’t wait to get into the Villa to meet all of the Islanders.”
Paul Mortimer, Director of Reality Programming and Acquisitions at ITV, said: “Finding a new host to follow the wonderful Laura Whitmore was never going to be easy. In Maya Jama, though, we have another high-profile fan of the show who’ll be a great addition to the Love Island family.
He added: “Cool, charming and charismatic, I speak for us all when I say Maya will also bring a unique presenting style to the show, as did Laura and, of course, the very much missed Caroline Flack. We’re very pleased to have her on board.”
Congratulations, Maya.
