Ekin-Su’s claim she was ‘asked to host Love Island before Maya Jama’ slammed by ITV insiders

EKIN-SU Cülcüloğlu’s claims she was offered the Love Island presenting job before Maya Jama have been slammed by ITV insiders.

The 28-year-old said this week she rejected the position after Laura Whitmore stepped down – but sources say Maya, also 28, was always their dream candidate.

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A telly insider told The Sun: “It’s not true. Maya was the first choice for host.”

Awkwardly Ekin-Su told Popsugar a different story this week.

She said: “I did get offered. I would’ve loved to do it, but I can’t at the minute because of how busy I am. And I said I’m not ready for it . . . I want proper training. I’ve done presenting before, but not to the level of Laura.”

When asked for her thoughts on Maya, Ekin-Su added: “She’s funny, intelligent, smart, beautiful. ITV have made a good choice with picking her, I think.”

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Former host Laura last week congratulated Maya on landing the job.

Commenting on Maya’s post sharing the exciting news, she wrote: “Yes girl!! So delighted for you! You’re gonna be fabxx.”

It comes after Laura quit in August having replaced the late Caroline Flack in 2020.

She said she found elements of the production “very difficult” when she revealed she was leaving.

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.”