‘Love Island’ Executive Producer’s Untimely Death Triggers GoFundMe for Partner’s Financial Relief

A GoFundMe has been established to assist the family of Love Island USA executive producer James Barker after his sudden death.

The campaign aims to raise funds to cover expenses related to honoring Barker's life, including mortgage payments on the home he shared with his partner, monthly bills, legal fees, and taxes. The GoFundMe launched on July 1, stating, “If you’re able to contribute, thank you. Every donation, no matter the size, will help ease the immediate financial strain so his loved ones can focus on grieving and honoring his truly extraordinary life.”

Supporters are encouraged to share the page as a “meaningful way to help.”

Barker passed away last month while filming the show’s eighth season in Fiji.

ITV America and Peacock released a statement expressing that “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.”

Love Island USA honored Barker at the end of the June 16 episode with a message that read, “For James. We love you.”

While the cause of Barker’s death remains undisclosed, the GoFundMe page indicated he died “from an unpreventable and tragic sudden death” on June 12.

The page reflects the struggle of those who loved him, stating, “Like everyone who loved him, we’re still struggling to comprehend a world without him. There was no time to prepare for this, and in the wake of his death, his loved ones are now navigating both profound grief and immediate financial responsibilities.”

It further noted Barker’s commitment to his community and charitable causes, emphasizing his mantra to “tip your drag queens” and his support for artists across various disciplines. “Now it’s our turn to show up for him and for those who are carrying the impossible burden and unbearable sadness of saying goodbye,” the page concluded.

Barker’s partner, Adam Roth, expressed gratitude for the GoFundMe initiative on his Instagram Story, stating, “Thank you for asking how you can support.”

Roth previously shared with People on June 15, “James was the absolute light and love of my life. He brought joy and brilliance to everything he touched. … We took such advantage of the time we had together. While it was not enough, I am so thankful for the time we had and the memories we made together.”