The Love Island USA crew is dealing with an incredible heartbreak behind the scenes.
While filming the ongoing Season 8 in Fiji, a beloved production team member passed away. Awful. Peacock and ITV America told TMZ on Monday that Executive Producer James Barker died last week while working on the show:
“ITV America and Peacock will honor in Tuesday’s episode of Love Island USA series Executive Producer James Barker, who passed away last week in Fiji after suffering an unexpected medical emergency.”
Devastating! He was only 40, per NBC News.
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The network went on to express:
“James’ unimaginable loss has been deeply felt across not just the entire Love Island USA production, but throughout all of ITV and Peacock.”
They went on to praise him, adding:
“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 exact details of what happened have not been shared. According to reports, James joined Love Island USA in 2020 and worked his way up to being an Executive Producer during the last three seasons. Per People, he helped with the show’s production, post-production, and oversaw the soundtrack. Throughout his career, he also worked on Pawn Stars, Queer Eye, Love Island Games, and more.
Earlier this month, James, who also worked as a DJ, praised his production team while hyping up the new season.
How absolutely heartbreaking.
We’re sending our love and condolences to his family and friends, as well as all the cast and crew on Love Island USA as they process this tragedy.
[Image via Love Island USA/YouTube & James Barker/Instagram]