Maya Jama has become the undisputed face of British reality television. The 31-year-old presenter secured her future with ITV after signing a lucrative contract worth over £2 million. She will return to host Love Island for both the All Stars series in January and the flagship summer edition.
Speculation had swirled for months about whether Jama would depart the villa. However, the Bristol-born broadcaster put all rumours to rest in September 2025. She confirmed via social media that she would continue helming one of Britain’s most talked-about reality shows. The announcement delighted millions of fans who have embraced her as the series’ most successful host since its 2015 launch.
From Bristol Roots to National Stardom
Maya Indea Jama was born on 14 August 1994 in Bristol. Her parents named her after the celebrated American poet and civil rights activist Maya Angelou. Her mother, Sadie, read Angelou’s iconic work during her pregnancy. This literary connection foreshadowed a life that would inspire millions.
Jama’s early years were marked by significant challenges. Her father spent much of her childhood in prison for violent offences. She made the difficult decision to stop visiting him when she was just 12 years old. Despite these hardships, her father’s family remained supportive throughout her formative years.
At 16, Jama made a bold move that would change her life. She relocated from Bristol to London to pursue her broadcasting dreams. Shortly after her arrival, tragedy struck when her boyfriend Rico Gordon was shot dead. He was caught in the crossfire of a gang shooting in Bristol whilst on the phone with her. Yet Jama persevered, telling the Standard: “I decided to stay in London and try to make it work”.
Her determination paid off spectacularly. She launched her own YouTube channel, which opened doors at JumpOff TV. From there, she climbed the ranks of British broadcasting with remarkable speed. She hosted shows for MTV, including The Wrap Up and MTV Essentials. Her natural charisma and presenting skills set her apart in a competitive industry.
The Love Island Era Begins
In 2023, Maya Jama became the third host of Love Island. She replaced Laura Whitmore, who had cited difficulties with certain aspects of the role. Jama’s appointment came after years of building her reputation across British television. She had already proven herself with BBC Three’s Glow Up and Channel 4’s The Circle.
Her debut on the winter edition of Love Island in January 2023 was met with widespread acclaim. Viewers praised her bubbly personality and killer fashion sense. She brought fresh energy to a format that had become somewhat predictable under previous hosts. Industry insiders quickly recognised that ITV had found their star.
Since taking over, Jama has fronted multiple editions of the show. These include the flagship summer series filmed in Majorca. She also hosted Love Island All Stars in South Africa. Additionally, she anchored Love Island Games in Fiji and the weekly Aftersun programme. Her workload demonstrates her central importance to the franchise.
The 2025 summer series, which was the show’s 12th season, concluded in August. Host Maya Jama revealed that Toni Laites and Cacherel ‘Cach’ Mercer had won the competition. The American bombshell and professional dancer took home the £50,000 prize. They beat finalists Shakira Khan and Harry Cooksley, who came second.
Securing the Bag: Maya’s Lucrative ITV Deal
ITV bosses were determined to keep Jama on board after her successful tenure. Reports suggest the broadcaster offered her more than £800,000 to host the summer series. She would receive the same amount for hosting All Stars. This brings her total Love Island earnings to over £1.6 million annually.
A source told the Daily Mail that “Maya is the heart of Love Island now”. The insider added that “the series wouldn’t be the same without her”. The sentiment reflects widespread recognition within the television industry. Jama has become synonymous with the show in a way few presenters achieve.
Her contract negotiations reportedly took several months. Both parties wanted to ensure the terms were mutually beneficial. The final agreement represents one of the most lucrative deals in British reality television. It cements Jama’s position as one of the UK’s highest-paid female presenters.
The financial investment makes sense from ITV’s perspective. Love Island remains a ratings powerhouse despite recent fluctuations. The 2025 All Stars series averaged 1.56 million viewers across its run. These figures don’t include streaming on ITVX or viewership on mobile devices. When digital viewing is factored in, the show’s reach extends significantly further.
Beyond the Villa: Maya’s Expanding Television Empire
Jama’s ambitions extend far beyond the Love Island villa. In December 2024, ITV announced she would join The Masked Singer judging panel. She replaced long-serving judge Rita Ora, who departed to join the American version. Jama joins Jonathan Ross, Davina McCall and Mo Gilligan on the eccentric show.
“I’m such a Masked Singer fan,” Jama enthused upon the announcement. She continued: “Joining the panel alongside Davina, Jonathan, and Mo is going to be so much fun!”. She expressed excitement about figuring out which celebrities hide beneath the elaborate costumes. Joel Dommett returns as host for what marks the show’s sixth season.
The move demonstrates Jama’s versatility as a broadcaster. The Masked Singer requires quick wit and analytical skills. It’s a departure from her Love Island role, where empathy and relatability take centre stage. Industry observers see the appointment as evidence of her growing clout within ITV.
Jama has also co-hosted major events including the BRIT Awards in 2024. She presented BBC’s Comic Relief the same year. In 2023, she co-hosted The British Fashion Awards. These high-profile gigs underscore her status as one of British television’s most bankable stars.
Building a Beauty Empire: The MIJ Masks Success Story
Away from television, Jama has quietly built a thriving business empire. In December 2020, she launched MIJ Masks, her own skincare brand. The company’s first release sold out within 24 hours. This immediate success validated her instinct that affordable, quality skincare had a hungry market.
Recent financial filings reveal spectacular growth for MIJ Mask Ltd. The company reported a near 25 per cent surge in profits. This performance has boosted Jama’s estimated personal net worth to over £2 million. Far from being a celebrity side hustle, MIJ Masks operates as a calculated, high-margin brand.
The UK skincare market is valued at over £2.6 billion annually, according to Statista. Jama has carved out a dominant position within this competitive landscape. Her authentic social media presence and massive platform gave the brand immediate visibility. Industry data shows celebrity-founded beauty brands collectively surpassed $1 billion in sales in 2023.
In a significant milestone, MIJ Masks announced Harvey Nichols as its first retail partner. The luxury department store launched the collection both in-store nationwide and online. Harvey Nichols beauty director Clare Horner said: “We are thrilled to launch MIJ Masks”. She praised the “nourishing ingredients” and innovative formulations.
Jama herself expressed excitement about the partnership. “As our first retail partner, I couldn’t be more gassed!” she said. She noted the brand had seen “rapid growth since launch”. The Harvey Nichols deal represented “a really exciting next chapter” for MIJ Masks.
The product line currently includes three core items. A Bio-Cellulose Face Mask offers intensive hydration. Pink and Silver Hydrogel Eye Patches target the delicate under-eye area. All products feature powerhouse ingredients like Vitamin C, Niacinamide and Hyaluronic Acid. These components soothe, hydrate and balance skin.
Jama’s entrepreneurial instincts have proven remarkably prescient. She launched during a period when self-care became increasingly valued. The pandemic heightened interest in at-home beauty treatments. MIJ Masks arrived precisely when consumers sought accessible luxury skincare.
Reflecting on her business success, Jama told reporters: “Everything in life, good or bad, has worked out eventually in my favour”. Her strategic decisions have consistently translated into financial rewards. The MIJ Masks trajectory exemplifies modern celebrity entrepreneurship done right.
Fashion Icon Status and Cultural Influence
Maya Jama’s influence extends deep into British fashion culture. She has become a style icon for millions of young Britons. Her Love Island wardrobe, masterminded by stylist Rhea Francois, sets trends with each episode. Fans eagerly track down her outfits, driving significant sales for featured brands.
In 2022, Jama was named the face of Dolce & Gabbana’s Autumn-Winter collection. The Italian luxury brand recognised her global appeal and fashion credibility. She has graced the cover of British Vogue, appearing on Edward Enninful’s final issue. That cover featured 40 iconic women, placing Jama among Britain’s cultural elite.
She’s also covered Sunday Times Style, ES Magazine, Wonderland, Rollercoaster and Women’s Health. Vogue previously named her one of their ‘Most Influential Girls’. A 2019 six-page Vogue spread cemented her status as a fashion force. She serves on the British Fashion Council’s Advisory Committee.
Research by ASOS in 2022 revealed Jama among the top fashion influences for British 20-somethings. She ranked alongside Zendaya, Dave and Harry Styles. ASOS noted these celebrities “express themselves through what they wear”. They “exude confidence and personal style through their outfits”.
Jama’s fashion choices resonate because they feel authentic rather than manufactured. Her Love Island appearances showcase body-con dresses and statement pieces. Yet she maintains a relatability that luxury fashion often lacks. This balance makes her style aspirational without seeming unattainable.
She’s also a global ambassador for Rimmel London. The cosmetics giant chose Jama to succeed icons like Kate Moss, Cara Delevingne and Adwoa Aboah. In 2024, she announced a collection with hair brand Beauty Works. She’s additionally an ambassador for Gordon’s Premium Pink Gin.
Beyond commercial partnerships, Jama uses her platform for advocacy work. She’s a longstanding ambassador for Savera UK. The organisation provides services to Black and ethnic minority communities facing domestic abuse. Her commitment to social causes adds depth to her public persona.
At London Fashion Week in September 2025, Jama turned heads in a sheer black gown with feather trim. The daring outfit set “new standards for fashion risk-taking and glamour”. It demonstrated her willingness to push boundaries whilst maintaining sophistication.
Love Island’s Cultural Impact on Modern Britain
Love Island has fundamentally altered British culture over its ten-year run. The Telegraph noted in June 2025 that the show “held a mirror up to society”. It has tracked the rise of social media, changing attitudes towards mental health and evolving beauty standards.
Chloe Combi, author of Generation Z: Their Voices, Their Lives, explains the show’s significance. “Love Island is really interesting because its rise happened at the same time as social media”. The programme has documented how young people navigate dating in the digital age.
The show has influenced how young Britons dress, talk and behave. It introduced phrases like “mugged off” and “grafting” into mainstream vocabulary. Beauty trends including full lips and dramatic eyelashes became widespread partly due to Love Island. The programme’s aesthetic choices ripple through British youth culture.
The Observer noted in June 2025 that Love Island “genuinely moved the cultural dial”. It transformed youth dynamics in Britain in ways few television programmes achieve. The show remains determinedly working-class in its sensibility. It presents working-class young people without condescension or mockery.
Interestingly, middle-class contestants often struggle on Love Island. The Observer pointed out that “middle-class males in particular seem sexually repellent to Islanders”. A posh education and Cornish surfer-boy haircut “gets a chap precisely nowhere” in the villa. This represents an intriguing reversal of real-world social dynamics.
The show has maintained authenticity by avoiding nepotism. Whilst there have been famous surnames like Danny Dyer’s daughter, the series never became nepo-centric. Love Island builds its own ecosystem of villa-reared stars. This approach keeps the focus on genuine personality rather than inherited celebrity.
Viewing figures have fluctuated since the 2019 peak of six million viewers. The 2023 summer premiere attracted 1.3 million television viewers. An additional 400,000 streamed on ITVX. These figures represented a decline from previous years. However, they still outperform the show’s early seasons.
Some industry observers suggest ITV may be dividing Love Island’s audience by airing twice yearly. The winter edition in January competes for viewers with the summer flagship. Yet both versions continue to generate significant engagement and social media conversation.
The All Stars format, introduced in 2024, brought back fan favourites from previous series. Maya Jama hosted the second All Stars season, which concluded in February 2025. The series was won by Casey. It averaged 1.56 million viewers across its 36-day run.
Romance with Ruben Dias: A Modern Power Couple
Maya Jama’s personal life has captivated British media throughout 2025. Her relationship with Manchester City defender Ruben Dias became public in April. The Portuguese international, 28, plays as vice-captain for the Premier League champions.
The couple reportedly first met at the MTV Music Awards in Manchester in November 2024. Jama attended wearing an Elizabeth Hurley-inspired safety pin dress that turned heads. Early rumours surfaced when fans spotted Maya in Dias’ New Year’s Eve pictures. Their relationship was confirmed when they appeared together at a Ball League event in London.
Since going public, the duo have navigated their high-profile romance with relative privacy. In an interview with The Telegraph, Dias commented on media scrutiny. He stated: “We are both aware, and there’s no way around it”. He acknowledged that their fame makes privacy challenging. The couple make conscious choices about what to share publicly.
Jama has been spending considerable time in Manchester at Dias’ £2.5 million penthouse. A source told The Sun that “Maya appreciates the laid-back atmosphere of Manchester”. The insider added she enjoys “the excitement of the football and WAG lifestyle”. Whilst Bristol and London remain special to her, she’s embracing life in the northern city.
On Halloween 2025, the couple delighted fans with coordinated Pirates of the Caribbean costumes. Jama wore a leather corset, tricorn hat and flowing skirt. Dias embodied Captain Jack Sparrow in full costume. Jama posted images from the Manchester City Halloween party to Instagram. Her caption read: “First Manchester Halloween”.
The post earned over 90,000 likes from Jama’s three million Instagram followers. Fans flooded the comments with love emojis and praise. One commented: “You both nailed it!”. Another wrote: “Best-looking couple ever”.
In August 2025, Jama gave fans a glimpse into Dias’ impressive trophy cabinet. Her Instagram story showed the gleaming collection displayed in his apartment. It featured consecutive Premier League titles and a UEFA Champions League winner’s medal. Individual accolades included Manchester City Player of the Season 2020/21. There was also a spot in the UEFA Champions League Team of the Season.
The relationship marks a new chapter for Jama after her highly publicised romance with rapper Stormzy. The pair first dated from 2014 to 2019. They rekindled their relationship in August 2023. However, they announced their final split in July 2024. In a joint statement, they explained: “We fell madly in love in 2014, broke up in 2019”. After spending five years apart, they tried again but ultimately decided to part ways.
Between her relationships with Stormzy, Jama dated NBA player Ben Simmons from 2021 to 2022. Each relationship garnered intense media attention given Jama’s rising profile. Her romance with Dias represents her most stable partnership in recent years.
Reports suggest Jama is considering a permanent move to Manchester to be with Dias. The city has become increasingly popular with celebrities. The Brit Awards will take place in Manchester for the first time in February. This shift indicates Manchester’s growing cultural significance beyond London.
The Road Ahead: What’s Next for Maya Jama
Jama’s career trajectory shows no signs of slowing. Her confirmed return to Love Island for 2026 ensures continuity for the franchise. She’ll host All Stars in January before the summer series launches in June and July. Her presence has become integral to Love Island’s identity.
Her dual role on The Masked Singer adds another dimension to her television portfolio. The show airs on ITV1 and ITVX, giving her visibility across multiple platforms. Balancing two major ITV shows demonstrates her work ethic and professional range.
MIJ Masks continues to expand with new retail partnerships on the horizon. The brand’s near 25 per cent profit growth suggests strong future prospects. Jama has proven she can translate fame into sustainable business success. Further product lines and international expansion seem likely.
Her fashion influence continues to grow through brand partnerships and media appearances. The Rimmel London ambassadorship and Beauty Works collection keep her visible in the beauty sector. Her British Fashion Council position gives her influence over industry direction. Expect more high-profile fashion collaborations as brands seek her endorsement.
Jama’s advocacy work with Savera UK reflects her commitment to social causes. She uses her platform to raise awareness about domestic abuse in minority communities. This aspect of her work adds substance beyond entertainment and commerce.
Her relationship with Ruben Dias places her at the intersection of entertainment and sports. This positioning opens opportunities in sports media and football-adjacent content. The WAG culture in Manchester provides rich material for potential projects.
At just 31, Jama has already achieved what many spend lifetimes pursuing. She’s overcome a difficult childhood to become one of Britain’s most recognisable faces. Her journey from Bristol to national stardom inspires countless young people. She told the Standard she exemplifies resilience and determination.
The coming years will test whether Jama can maintain her momentum across multiple ventures. Television presenters must constantly evolve to remain relevant. Her diversification across hosting, business and fashion suggests she understands this reality. Few British entertainers have built such a multifaceted career whilst still in their early thirties.
Love Island’s future remains intertwined with Jama’s continued involvement. ITV’s substantial financial investment reflects their confidence in her star power. The show needs her more than she needs it at this stage of her career. Yet she remains committed to the programme that elevated her to household-name status.
Maya Jama: A Reflection of Modern Britain
Maya Jama’s success story reflects broader changes in British media and society. Her Somali and Swedish heritage makes her a visible symbol of multicultural Britain. Her working-class Bristol roots ground her in authenticity despite her wealth and fame. She represents a generation that navigates traditional and social media with equal fluency.
Her business acumen challenges outdated notions of celebrity entrepreneurs as dilettantes. MIJ Masks operates as a genuine business generating substantial profits. Her strategic decisions show sophistication beyond simply lending her name to products. She understands markets, timing and brand positioning.
Her fashion influence demonstrates the democratisation of style in the social media age. Young Britons no longer look exclusively to aristocrats or models for fashion guidance. They follow people like Jama who feel accessible despite their celebrity. Her style choices spark immediate trends precisely because she seems relatable.
Her advocacy work shows an awareness of her platform’s power beyond entertainment. Supporting organisations like Savera UK amplifies voices that often go unheard. She uses her visibility to highlight issues affecting marginalised communities. This demonstrates a sense of social responsibility increasingly expected of public figures.
The challenges she overcame early in life add depth to her public persona. Her father’s incarceration, her boyfriend’s murder and her solo move to London at 16 could have derailed her. Instead, these experiences forged resilience that serves her in the competitive entertainment industry. She proves that difficult beginnings don’t determine outcomes.
Her relationship choices reflect modern attitudes towards love and partnership. Her high-profile relationships have been scrutinised but she maintains dignity throughout. Her current romance with Dias seems built on mutual respect and shared values. They navigate fame together whilst preserving privacy where possible.
Conclusion
Maya Jama has established herself as one of Britain’s most influential entertainers. Her journey from Bristol to the pinnacle of British television exemplifies determination and talent. The £2 million Love Island contract cements her status as a premier reality TV host. Her expanding television empire includes The Masked Singer and multiple high-profile hosting gigs.
Beyond broadcasting, her MIJ Masks beauty brand generates substantial profits. The Harvey Nichols partnership signals serious business ambitions. Her fashion influence shapes how millions of young Britons dress and present themselves. Brand partnerships with Rimmel London, Dolce & Gabbana and Beauty Works underscore her commercial value.
Her relationship with Manchester City’s Ruben Dias adds another dimension to her public profile. The couple have become one of Britain’s most discussed celebrity pairings. Her potential move to Manchester represents a new chapter in her personal life.
Love Island’s cultural impact over ten years has been profound. The show has shaped youth culture, language and beauty standards. Maya Jama’s stewardship ensures the programme remains relevant and engaging. Her confirmed return through 2026 guarantees continuity for millions of fans.
At 31, Jama’s career continues its upward trajectory. She balances multiple projects whilst maintaining authenticity and relatability. Her story inspires those who face obstacles in pursuing their dreams. From Bristol to Britain’s screens, Maya Jama has become an icon for a generation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Maya Jama earn from hosting Love Island?
Maya Jama reportedly earns over £1.6 million annually from Love Island. ITV offered her more than £800,000 to host the main summer series and the same amount for All Stars. This lucrative deal makes her one of the UK’s highest-paid female presenters. The contract reflects her importance to the franchise and ITV’s determination to keep her.
Is Maya Jama still hosting Love Island in 2026?
Yes, Maya Jama confirmed in September 2025 that she will continue hosting Love Island. She will return for the All Stars series in January 2026 and the summer series afterwards. Her announcement ended months of speculation about her future with the show. A source stated that “Maya is the heart of Love Island now”.
What is Maya Jama’s beauty brand MIJ Masks?
MIJ Masks is Maya Jama’s skincare company, launched in December 2020. The brand specialises in face masks and eye patches with ingredients like Vitamin C and Hyaluronic Acid. Recent financial filings show a near 25 per cent surge in profits. The brand’s first release sold out within 24 hours. Harvey Nichols became its first retail partner in 2024.
Who is Maya Jama dating now?
Maya Jama is currently in a relationship with Manchester City defender Ruben Dias. The couple went public with their romance in April 2025. They reportedly met at the MTV Music Awards in Manchester in November 2024. Jama has been spending significant time at Dias’ £2.5 million Manchester penthouse. The couple celebrated Halloween 2025 together at a Manchester City party.
What other TV shows does Maya Jama present?
Beyond Love Island, Maya Jama joined The Masked Singer judging panel for the 2025 season. She replaced Rita Ora alongside Jonathan Ross, Davina McCall and Mo Gilligan. She has also co-hosted major events including the 2024 BRIT Awards and BBC’s Comic Relief. Previously, she presented BBC Three’s Glow Up and Channel 4’s The Circle. She also co-hosted The British Fashion Awards in 2023.
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