‘Love Island USA’ executive producer James Barker passes away at 40

Network shares an official statement that ‘Love Island USA’ executive producer James Barker passes away at 40.(Image Credit: Instagram)

The executive producer of ‘Love Island USA,’ James Barker, passed away last week. The makers reveal that James, 40, passed away while filming the most recent season.

James Barker passes away at 40: Official statemtment by ITV America and Peacock

According to the statement released by ITV America and Peacock, James Barker passed away during the shoot on the South Pacific island nation of Fiji.

Though the cause of death has not been disclosed, he reportedly experienced an unexpected medical emergency.

Extending their condolences, the channels shared, "James’ unimaginable loss has been deeply felt across not just the entire Love Island USA production, but throughout all of ITV and Peacock.” “He was a beloved and greatly valued member of our collective family whose kindness, talent, and dedication left an indelible mark on all of us and everyone who had the privilege of knowing and working with him.

We extend our heartfelt condolences to James’ partner, family, friends, and colleagues,” the statement concluded.In 2020, James Barker was the story producer on the reality show, and then over the course of six years, he was promoted to be the executive producer, reported NBC News. The outlet further reported that the makers will be featuring a special show on June 16, in honour of James Barker.

Tributes pour in after James Barker’s demise

The news of his demise left everyone heartbroken. The producer of the show, Raf Thompson, took to X (formerly Twitter) to pay James a tribute.

He wrote, "I’m absolutely devastated to hear my work colleague James Barker has passed away. James was the one that hired me for the show. This is horrific and a complete tragedy to our Love Island USA family. There is simply no show without James."

"He was a visionary, creative genius that revolutionised Love Island USA to the heights we see today,” he wrote before extending his prayers for the grieving family and friends, “This is a terrible loss for all, and I’ll be praying for his partner, friends and family during this difficult time.

Rest in peace brother. #LoveIsland."

James Barker’s journey

James Barker’s career in reality television began in 2011. Over the years, he worked on shows like ‘Counting Cars,’ ‘Forged in Fire,’ and ‘Pawn Stars,’ according to ITV. Before his successful run at ‘Love Island USA,’ he also worked on the Emmy-winning ‘Queer Eye.’