"Love Island USA" honored executive producer James Barker during Tuesday night's episode, just days after his unexpected passing in Fiji.
The tribute featured a photo montage set to RÜFÜS DU SOL's "Next to Me," showing images of Barker with his partner, Adam Roth, and moments from his life. The screen ended with the message: "James Barker, We Love You."
Barker died last week after suffering an unexpected medical emergency while production on Season 8 was underway, ITV America and Peacock confirmed. In a joint statement, they said, "James' unimaginable loss has been deeply felt across not just the entire Love Island USA production, but throughout all of ITV and Peacock."
They added: "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."
Roth also shared an emotional tribute, calling James "the absolute light and love of my life."
Barker joined the franchise in 2020 as a story producer and rose to executive producer for the last three seasons, playing a key role in production and post-production.