After a brief battle with a nasty flu, Maya Jama has bounced back and is back in action, touching down in Cape Town ahead of the much-anticipated Love Island: All Stars.
The 31-year-old presenter had to pull out of a high-profile launch event just days before the ITV2 dating series was set to kick off, sharing with fans that the illness had “kicked my a**” during her long-haul flight.
Despite the setback, Maya looked radiant as she arrived in South Africa, signaling that she’s well on the mend.
With two massive suitcases in tow, she smiled for the cameras as she made her way through the airport, ready to host the star-studded version of the hit reality show.
Casual Yet Chic Airport Style
Even while recovering, Maya didn’t compromise on style.
She opted for a relaxed yet fashionable look, pairing a ribbed chiffon sheer shirt with black wide-leg trousers and a patent slouch bag.
Her effortless ensemble proved that even a flu-stricken host can make a stylish airport entrance.
Maya’s absence from the Love Island: All Stars press launch was felt, but the panel, hosted by Elizabeth Day, carried on at Soho House in West London with contributions from voiceover star Iain Sterling, former winners Molly Smith and Tom Clare, and producers Mike Spencer and Amanda Stavr.
Candid Health Update from the Plane
While en route to Cape Town, Maya took a moment to update fans on Instagram.
Smiling for a selfie, she shared that she had stocked up on vitamins to boost her immunity and was “praying the sun deletes it all.”
In her caption, she reflected humorously on the flu’s timing and hinted at her new approach to flights, moving from chatting with the crew to a more wholesome, health-conscious routine.
Excited to Return to Work
By Sunday afternoon, Maya’s spirits were high.
She shared another selfie on Instagram, gushing about how excited and ready she felt to get back to work, confirming that her flight to South Africa was booked for Monday.
Her team has nothing but praise for her dedication, especially as she heads into her third year hosting the show.
Producers Amanda Stavr and Mike Spencer highlighted Maya’s energy and connection with the Islanders.
Amanda noted that Maya’s enthusiasm makes the show feel youthful and relevant, while Mike joked that Maya could have been an iconic Islander herself.
Glamorous Promo Shoot Ahead of the Show
Ahead of the new series, Maya turned heads during a promo shoot, slipping into a sparkling gold chainmail mini dress.
She confirmed that her outfits for greeting the Islanders around the villa’s fire pit are being finalized, teasing that her ensembles will be “sexy as usual.”
Clearly, fans have plenty to look forward to when Love Island: All Stars premieres.
Meet the All-Star Cast
The lineup for the upcoming series features a mix of returning favorites and fan favorites:
- Millie Court, 29, returns after her split from Liam Reardon.
- Jess Harding, 25, the 2023 winner, comes back for another shot at love.
- Whitney Adebayo, 28, runner-up in 2023, will be back after a controversial breakup with Lochan Nowacki.
- Jack Keating, 26, son of Ronan Keating, also returns following his unsuccessful 2022 stint.
- Helena Ford, 29, is back after being dumped from the Mallorca villa.
- Tommy Bradley, 22, joins Helena for a second chance at romance.
- Charlie Frederick, 31, returns after his 2018 appearance.
- Belle Hassan, 27, known for her celebrity connections, makes another appearance.
- Sean Stone, 26, and Leanne Amaning are also re-entering the villa for love.
- Ciaran Davies, 23, runner-up in 2024, and Shaq Muhammad, 27, round out the cast.
With this star-studded ensemble, the new season promises drama, romance, and unforgettable moments.
Countdown to the Fire Pit
Maya is set to welcome the All-Star Islanders to the villa in just a week, and after her flu scare, she’s ready to bring her signature energy, style, and charisma back to the show.
Fans can expect all the excitement, love triangles, and drama they’ve come to know—and Maya Jama will be at the heart of it all.
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