Love Island host Maya Jama has responded to viewer concerns after fans speculated she had 'gone missing' from the show. The presenter, who last appeared in the first episode on June 1, returned on Sunday evening to announce the arrival of Casa Amor.
Fans Question Maya's Absence
ITV's popular dating reality show has reached its halfway mark in series 13, but viewers had become distracted by Maya's lack of appearances. In previous series, Maya would make several surprise visits to host tasks or announce viewer poll results, but this season the only voting results have come via text message.
One fan posted on social media: 'Has Maya only stepped into the Villa once this season? Where is she?' Another asked: 'Is Maya on annual leave this season?'
Maya's Defiant Response
Before Sunday's episode aired, Maya shared photos on X showing her new outfit for the series, writing: 'Heard you missed me.. Back on your tv tonight at 9pm.' She then made a surprise arrival at the villa to announce Casa Amor, bringing a host of new bombshells hoping to couple up with original Islanders.
ITV confirmed the line-up of new arrivals, including Irish influencer Charleen Murphy and the brother of YouTuber Jordon Wilson.
Maya Addresses Criticism
After her return, a fan quoted Maya's post and commented: 'You literally haven't been on since the first episode lol.' Maya promptly replied: 'Yeah girl it's not up to me. S*** I missed the villa too.' The fan then clarified: 'I wasn't hating on Maya lol. I know she's booked and busy.'
Another viewer added: 'People think Maya can just rock up to the villa when she wants.'
Fan Celebration
Other viewers expressed delight at seeing Maya back on screen. One commented: 'I miss seeing Maya she look stunning.' Another said: 'The islanders are even shocked Maya is here because she hasn't been there since the first episode.'
Fans may not have to wait as long for her next appearance. While she was back in the UK filming another episode of Aftersun, her latest Instagram stories reveal she is now back in Spain.
Love Island continues tomorrow at 9pm on ITV2 and ITVX.
