James Barker, an executive producer known for his work on “Love Island USA” and “Queer Eye,” died last week in Fiji, where “Love Island USA” was filming, after an unexpected medical emergency. He was 40.
The news was confirmed to Variety by ITV America and Peacock; Barker will be honored in Tuesday’s “Love Island USA” episode.
“James’ unimaginable loss has been deeply felt across not just the entire ‘Love Island USA’ production, but throughout all of ITV and Peacock,” ITV America and Peacock said in a joint statement. “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 also noted his contributions to the show across “both production and post-production, as well as oversight of the series’ distinctive soundtrack.”
Barker has worked on “Love Island USA” since 2020, starting out as story producer and working up to executive producer for the last three seasons. In total, he worked on 110 episodes. His TV career began in 2011 at Leftfield Pictures, with credits on “Counting Cars,” “Forged in Fire” and “Pawn Stars.” He went on to work as story producer on “Queer Eye.”
The eighth season of “Love Island USA” is currently airing, with episodes available to stream on Peacock. Barker also served as executive producer on “Love Island Games” and consulting producer on “Love Island: Beyond the Villa.”
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