Maya Jama shades Ekin-Su after Love Island winner claimed she was offered presenting job before her
LOVE Island’s new host Maya Jama has seemingly thrown a little shade to 2022 winner Ekin-Su Cülcüloğlu after she claimed she was offered the position.
Laura Whitmore stepped down from the position of Love Island host earlier this year after three series presenting the beloved reality show.
As a result, the question of who would fill the gap became a massive talking point, with Maya Jama eventually being announced as the official replacement.
But Ekin-Su, who won the latest series with Davide Sanclimenti, sparked curiosity when she said in an interview that she was offered the position first.
"I did get offered [the presenting role] I would've loved to do it, but I can't at the minute because of how busy I am,” she told .
"I said I'm not ready for it… I want proper training. I've done presenting before, but not to the level of Laura."
However, Ekin-Su’s claims have since been debunked by Love Island insiders, who say she was never even in the running and Maya Jama was the first person considered.
A source told The Sun: "It's not true. Maya was the first choice for host."
And it seems like the claim has got back to Maya, who liked tweets sharing stories debunking the suggestion.
Maya is yet to make her debut appearance on the show, but has become a TV presenting favourite thanks to her roles on Glow Up, Don’t Hate The Playaz and hosting duties at awards shows including the Baftas and the Brits.
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Taking on the hot seat as the leading lady of Love Island, Maya said: “I’ve always been such a massive Love Island fan and I’m so excited to be hosting one of the nation’s favourite shows! I can’t wait to get into the Villa to meet all of the Islanders.”
Laura, 37, was quick to congratulate Maya, commenting on her post sharing the exciting news.
She wrote: "Yes girl!! So delighted for you! You're gonna be fab❤️xx."
Love Island returns in 2023 and is available for catch-up on ITV Hub.
