Maya Jama is officially closing the doors to the villa.

For, the popular presenter has announced that she is stepping down as host of ‘Love Island UK’ after three years and nine series.

Taking to Instagram with a heartfelt statement, the 32-year-old confirmed her departure from the ITV dating phenomenon and revealed that she is ready to embrace a new chapter.

Full story below…

Reflecting on her time fronting the show, Jama 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.”

She went on to thank viewers, the production team, and those who championed her appointment in the first place.

Explaining her decision, the star added:

“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.”

Jama took over hosting duties from Laura Whitmore in 2023, quickly becoming a fixture of the franchise across its main series and spin-offs.

Among the defining moments of her tenure was the historic 2024 finale, which saw Mimii Ngulube and Josh Oyinsan become the first Black couple to win ‘Love Island UK.’

Interestingly, her announcement comes hot on the heels of her standout stint on BBC’s ‘Celebrity Traitors,’ where she made it all the way to the finale before being banished.

The presenter has also been expanding her acting portfolio, landing a role in Netflix’s ‘The Gentlemen’ and subsequently returning to film more of the hit drama.

ITV has reportedly thanked Jama for her contribution and wished her continued success.

Her replacement has yet to be officially announced.

After years of slow-motion entrances, dramatic dumpings, and fire-pit revelations, it marks the end of a hugely successful chapter for the British TV favorite.

But with Maya’s career continuing to blossom beyond the villa, her next move will undoubtedly be one to watch.

Maya Jama’s Full ‘Love Island’ Farewell 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.

Your thoughts?

[Photo Credit: ITV]

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