'Love Island USA' Chief Producer Dies at 40 During Fiji Filming

James Barker, the executive producer of the American version of "Love Island," died at age 40 while filming the new season in Fiji after suffering what the broadcasters described as an "unexpected medical condition." ITV America and Peacock said the cause of death has not yet been released.

Barker was one of the most closely identified figures behind "Love Island USA," a franchise that also has an Israeli adaptation. He joined the production in 2020 as a content and story producer, was later promoted to executive producer, and had held that role for the last three seasons. He also worked on the spinoff series "Love Island Games."

In a joint statement, the network and streaming service said, "The unimaginable loss of James is felt deeply. He was a beloved and respected member of the Love Island family whose kindness, warmth and passion have left a lasting impact on everyone who had the privilege of working with him." They said this week’s episode would be dedicated to his memory.

Before becoming a leading name behind "Love Island USA," Barker worked on several successful reality shows, including "Are You the One?" He also spent about 20 years as a DJ and music producer. His death comes during the eighth season of "Love Island," which Peacock says had the strongest season premiere in the service’s history.