Maya Jama has a text to share with Love Island UK viewers — her resignation letter.
“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,” Maya, 32, wrote via Instagram on Sunday, November 8, sharing highlights from her time in the villa. “It’s my time to step down as the host of my beloved Love Island.”
Maya hosted nine seasons of the U.K. version and the OG iteration of the Love Island Games spinoff.
“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,” Maya said. “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.”
She continued, “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.”
Maya further gushed that she “met the most wonderful humans” throughout her nine-season tenure hosting Love Island UK.
“I’ve loved every slow-mo walk, fire pit and live show. I’ll forever be grateful for the experience,” she said. “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.”
Maya concluded, “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.”
Maya reposted her upload to her Instagram Stories as well, adding, “I feel emotional. End of an era.”
The Celebrity Traitors UK star succeeded Laura Whitmore as the Love Island host in 2023. Laura, 41, previously took over emcee duties after the late Caroline Flack left the post.
“There are certain elements of the show I’ve found very difficult that cannot be changed some due to the format, including the flying back and forth to South Africa along with my new conflicting projects,” Laura said of her exit in a 2022 Instagram post. “I wish it was still possible but know you’ll be in safe hands. I was only planning to fill in for Caroline for a series and it turned into three series.”
