Love Island presenter Maya Jama was notably absent from the official launch event for the upcoming Love Island: All Stars series after falling unwell. The event, held to unveil the full cast for the 2026 series, went ahead without its star host just days before filming is set to begin in South Africa.
Illness Forces Last-Minute Absence
The launch panel, which took place today, was attended by narrator Iain Stirling, previous winners Molly Smith and Tom Clare, alongside ITV executives. However, Maya Jama's place was empty. Panel host Elizabeth Day informed attendees that Jama had been forced to pull out after feeling unwell.
This setback comes at a crucial time, with the new series scheduled to start on Monday at 9pm on ITV2 and ITVX. Reports indicate Jama was due to fly to South Africa today to prepare for the beginning of filming.
All-Star Cast Line-Up Revealed
Despite Jama's absence, ITV pressed ahead with the major announcement: the full roster of islanders for the third All Stars series. The line-up features a mix of fan favourites and memorable contestants from past seasons.
The confirmed cast includes:
- Whitney Adebayo and Jess Harding from series 10.
- Belle Hassan from series five.
- Shaq Muhammad from series nine.
- Jack Keating, son of singer Ronan Keating, from series eight.
- Helena Ford and Tommy Bradley from last year's series.
- Ciaran Davies and Sean Stone from series 11.
- Millie Court from series seven, who split from co-star Liam Reardon.
- Leanne Amaning from series six and Charlie Frederick from series four.
Jama's Personal Life and Future Plans
The presenter was recently seen supporting her boyfriend, Manchester City footballer Ruben Dias, at an away match. The couple, who met at the European Music Awards a year ago, enjoyed a Christmas trip to Paris before Dias returned to football duties.
Last year, rumours suggested Jama was preparing to move to Manchester to be closer to Dias. A source cited her appreciation for the city's "down-to-earth nature" and its growing status as a celebrity hub, especially with events like The Brit Awards being held there in February.
All eyes will now be on whether Jama recovers in time to host the hotly anticipated launch episode next week, as a new group of islanders gets a second shot at love.
