FIJI — James Barker, executive producer for the reality television series "Love Island USA," died last week in Fiji at age 40 after experiencing an unexpected medical emergency. ITV America and Peacock issued a joint statement confirming his death.

Medical details regarding the cause of Barker's death have not been publicly released. "Love Island USA" will feature a tribute to Barker in its June 16 episode, which is part of the show's eighth season. New episodes of the show are released daily on Peacock, with the exception of Wednesdays.

Barker joined the production of "Love Island USA" in 2020 as a story producer and held the executive producer position for the past three seasons. He also served as an executive producer on "Love Island Games" and as a consulting producer on "Love Island: Beyond the Villa." Additionally, he oversaw the music selection and soundtrack production for "Love Island USA." Before his work on the "Love Island" franchise, Barker began working in television production in 2011 on programs such as "Counting Cars," "Forged in Fire," and "Pawn Stars." He was employed at Leftfield Pictures as a producer prior to joining ITV America, where he also worked as a producer on "Queer Eye." Beyond his television career, Barker worked as a DJ and songwriter under the professional name Chaotic DJ for 20 years.

ITV America and Peacock noted the impact of his death in their statement. "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," the joint statement said. "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' family, friends and colleagues."

Adam Roth, Barker's partner, released a public statement about his death. "He brought joy and brilliance to everything he touched. James was such a champion of the community of young music artists he was able to introduce to audiences on Love Island. I am so proud of the work he did and that he was surrounded by such an amazing team," Roth said.

Barker published a social media post on June 11 expressing a preference for being in New York City over filming in Fiji. He and Roth purchased an apartment in Brooklyn in January. The two met while attending a Billie Eilish concert.