Love Island host Maya Jama has shared an unexpected update from Cape Town, revealing her downtime has been disrupted not just by wildfires but by an unwelcome insect invasion. The presenter, 31, is in South Africa for the launch of Love Island: All Stars, which has been postponed by ITV due to safety concerns.
An Unwelcome Bedfellow
In a social media post on Wednesday, Maya Jama described being 'terrorised by huge bugs' in her accommodation. The incident reached a peak when a large beetle, which she said resembled a cockroach but had pincers, dropped onto her bed in the middle of the night.
'It was so heavy it sounded like a mouse landed,' she wrote, explaining that the insect then crawled under her bed and continued to make noise all night from behind a curtain. The TV star admitted defeat, stating 'He won. I slept on the sofa with a blanket over my head.'
Unexpected Downtime in South Africa
Jama's bug ordeal comes during an unplanned break. She flew out last week ahead of the show's scheduled start, but ITV bosses were forced to postpone the launch after wildfires raged in areas close to the planned villa. Filming was due to begin at the weekend.
Earlier in the week, the presenter had shared glimpses of her 'wholesome' time in Cape Town, strolling through the city she now considers a 'new home' after visiting for four years. She also showcased her figure in a bikini from brand Hunza G.
The Costly Delay and Awaiting a New Date
The postponement is having significant logistical and financial implications. ITV hopes to begin filming on Wednesday, but a broadcast date for the launch episode is still to be confirmed. The delay is reportedly costing the broadcaster over £15,000 an hour due to commitments to crew, staff, and other professionals on the ground.
A statement from ITV read: 'Just a reminder that the Love Island launch show has been delayed due to wild fires near the villa in South Africa. Everyone is safe though and we're working on bringing you an iconic series.'
Twelve confirmed Islanders, including former contestants like Millie Court and Tommy Bradley, are currently in high-end accommodations along with several unannounced 'bombshells', all awaiting the new start date.
