Love Island finally confirms Maya Jama will replace Laura Whitmore as new host-Cydney Yeates-Entertainment – Metro

We have a new Love Island host! (Picture: Getty)

Maya Jama has been confirmed as the new host of Love Island, ITV has announced.

After mounting speculation, the television personality will replace Laura Whitmore on the beloved dating show when the series returns to South Africa in 2023.

‘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!’ Maya enthused.

‘I can’t wait to get into the Villa to meet all of the Islanders.’

Maya also celebrated the news in a video shared on social media where she revealed her new role.

The clip began with the star scrolling through tabloid stories about who would be presenting before grabbing her Love Island water bottle. Her branded suitcase was then revealed in the shot.

‘Okay, the rumours are true 😉 Say hey to your brand-new #LoveIsland host @mayajama!’ the caption read.

Laura has already thrown her support behind Maya, writing on Instagram: ‘Yes girl!! So delighted for you! You’re gonna be fab❤️x.’

She announced in August that she would be stepping down from her role on the series after two years at the helm.

The 37-year-old had fronted the programme, and its spin-off series Aftersun, since 2020 after the death of the show’s former presenter Caroline Flack.

Sharing details of her departure on her Instagram, she wrote: ‘Some news! I won’t be hosting the next series of Love Island.

Laura Whitmore announced her departure from the ITV2 series in August (Picture: ITV)

‘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.

‘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 3 series. I hope I did you proud Caroline.’

More: Trending

Following the announcement, an ITV spokesperson said: ‘Laura has been a fantastic host across the last three series of the show.

‘We are so grateful for everything she has brought to the programme but understand and respect her decision, and we look forward to working with her on upcoming ITV projects.’

More to follow.

Got a story?

If you’ve got a celebrity story, video or pictures get in touch with the Metro.co.uk entertainment team by emailing us celebtips@metro.co.uk, calling 020 3615 2145 or by visiting our Submit Stuff page – we’d love to hear from you.

Entertainment – MetroRead More