Maya Jama 'in talks' to replace Emma Willis as host on The Voice UK
'She's planning her next moves'Maya Jama is reportedly in confidential discussions to become the new host of The Voice UK, replacing Emma Willis.
The Love Island presenter, 31, is understood to have held several meetings with ITV executives over recent months regarding the high-profile presenting role.
Maya Jama ‘in talks’ to replace Emma Willis on The Voice UK
According to The Sun, insiders claim bosses have been impressed enough to formally offer Maya the job. Although, it is understood she has not yet made a final decision.
Reportedly, several major television opportunities in the US have also emerged. This leaves ITV waiting to hear whether she will accept.
A source said: “There have been a lot of approaches to Maya from various networks, including ITV, and shows in the UK and Stateside.
“The Voice producers and her did have meetings but because of her other commitments the conversation didn’t progress.
“Right now, she and her management are evaluating all of the opportunities and planning her next moves.”
Should Maya take on the role, it would mark only her second ITV1 primetime hosting job, following Simon Cowell’s Walk The Line. The show aired for a single series before being axed.
The 15th series of The Voice is expected to begin filming this autumn. It will see the departure of McFly stars Danny Jones and Tom Fletcher, who have reportedly quietly exited their coaching roles.
The 14th series will see Kelly Rowland, Danny and Tom, Tom Jones, and Will.i.am as coaches. It is set to launch this summer. However, a date has yet to be confirmed.
TV Guide have reached out to ITV for comment.
Emma’s new Strictly gig
Emma Willis, 50, has fronted The Voice UK since 2014. She is stepping down after signing on to co-host the BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing.
She will replace Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman and will be joined by former pro Johannes Radebe and comedian Josh Widdicombe.
In a statement, Emma shared: “It’s no secret that I’m a huge fan of Strictly. I’ve cheered and danced along from my sofa for years – so to be stepping into the Strictly ballroom is something I can’t quite comprehend.”
She continued: “It’s impossible to fill the shoes that Tess and Claudia have left behind – two wonderful, iconic women who have been the beating heart of Strictly for so long. I can only hope that we are able to help to steer the ship as beautifully as they have, into this new chapter. I can’t wait to spend my weekends with Josh and Jojo, the incredible dancers and the judges. Fingers crossed for a 10 from them!”
