MAYA Jama has the magic touch – as Love Island bosses are preparing to formally recommission the winter series of the show.
Ratings for this year’s January series stooped to their lowest for seven years.
But insiders said the popularity of new host Maya, 28, left, has left ITV wanting more.
A source said: “Maya has more than proved her worth as the presenter of Love Island and while the ratings for this winter series weren’t the best – she came out on top.
“Love Island have already informed the owners of the £1.2million villa in South Africa that they want to return there at the end of this year ahead of the winter 2024 show.
“With Maya at the helm for the summer series, ITV think she will only increase its popularity which they think will carry onto the next winter edition.
“Maya was crowned the winner of Love Island when her debut episode aired and ITV think she will only continue to make TV gold for them.”
Telly queen Maya is taking a break before preparing to start on Love Island’s summer series.
She flew to New York following the end of the winter series and is now back in London.
The fallouts from Love Island – which is the most popular ITV show for 16-34 year olds – have begun with the finalists all settling back into life away from the villa.
Last week The Sun exclusively revealed which couple were the first casualty of this year’s series.
Pals told how Casey O’Gorman had split from Rosie Seabrook just one week after the show came to a close.
Those close to Casey, 26, said he boasted he was single at the DoubleTree Hilton Hotel in Borehamwood, Hertfordshire.
A source said: “Casey said he was not officially in a couple with Rosie and that he was single.
“It was clear he was ready to go out on the pull and enjoy the attention that comes after being on a show like Love Island.
“There doesn’t appear to be a deep connection between Casey and Rosie and although they were a couple when they were in the villa – being on the outside has made them realise they’re not right for each other.
“Being on Love Island and being in the villa is like a bubble and once the islanders come out often their situations and relationships completely change.”
Casey confirmed the news on Instagram this afternoon during a Q&A with fans.
One follower asked: “How are things with you and Rosie?”
Casey replied: “Rosie and I have spoken… she’s such a great girl.
“Life outside the villa is just very different and we will remain friends moving forward!”
Casey had previously admitted he was spending time away from Rosie, 24, after they arrived back in the UK from South Africa.
