Love Island All Stars Interview: Maya Jama

Love Island returns to South Africa for the first series of Love Island: All Stars as familiar faces venture back into TV’s most talked about Villa for a second chance at finding love.

Love Island: All Stars will make its on screen debut in 2024 with famed former Islanders given another shot at finding the one. Produced by Lifted Entertainment, part of ITV Studios, and GroupM Motion Entertainment, Love Island: All Stars will launch across ITV1, ITV2, STV  and ITVX.

Maya Jama on ITV’s Love Island All Stars

How does it feel to be presenting the very first series of Love Island All Stars? It’s a new show so it feels amazing. I’ve watched Love Island since series 1 so I know them all. There are some favourites, and some big characters, that maybe didn’t get as much time to shine as they could have because they joined later on [in their year], so I think this is going to be a really incredible series.

This series is going to be pretty different with the return of some of the show’s most iconic Islanders, what are you most excited about?

I’m excited to see them grown up and how they may have changed or evolved since we last saw them on screen. I’m interested to see if their energy has changed, will they be wilder or more tame since their original series? I also think seeing the dynamic between Islanders from so many different series coming together will be fun. All the drama and the potential couples that will come out of it, it’s exciting.

Love Island continues to capture the hearts of the nation since its launch in 2015, what do you think it is about the show that resonates so deeply with the viewers?

I think it’s because it’s like getting a first-hand look into both a girls’ and boys’ trip, and seeing who falls out and who falls in love. Also, to get a front row seat and to feel like you’re a part of their journey is quite special.

In your role as a presenter you’re lucky enough to film in some pretty incredible locations, what do you enjoy most about shooting in South Africa?

The food! There are so many great restaurants in South Africa, I’d say it’s probably one of my top five food destinations that I’ve ever been to. The people are also really lovely!

2023 has been your year, hosting three series of Love Island, landing the cover of British Vogue and more recently hosting The Fashion Awards. Is there anything else you’re hoping to achieve career wise in 2024?

I’d like to try my hand at acting, and also just to enjoy everything else that’s happening.

Together with your team your looks never miss, are there any trends or themes you’re keen to incorporate into your styling this series?

I think it’s going to be similar to the last series – but even better!

Episode 1 launches on ITV1, ITV2, STV and ITVX simulcast on Monday 15 January at 9pm

Love Island: All Stars will continue to resume on ITV2 and ITVX at 9pm for the remainder of the series.