James Barker, the producer of Peacock and ITV’s reality TV Show Love Island USA, passed away unexpectedly last week while shooting the show’s latest season in the South Pacific island nation of Fiji. His death was announced by ITV America and Peacock in a statement on Monday. He was 40.
In the statement, the two broadcasters said that Barker died “after suffering an unexpected medical emergency.” His exact cause of death has not been released. Additionally, the specifics of the medical emergency are also unclear.
“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’ family, friends and colleagues,” the statement from Peacock and ITV America read.
NBC News notes that James Barker joined the Love Island USA in 2020 as a story producer. He worked his way up in the production ladder in the last six years, working as the executive producer at the time of his death. A special honor for Barker will be aired along with the Tuesday, June 16 episode of the show, the producers announced.
This story is being updated.
