Love Island USA season 7 introduced Sophie Monk as the new host of Aftersun, taking over from Maura Higgins. Maura had previously hosted the segment in season 6, after making her name on Love Island UK and later appearing in Love Island Games.While Maura had publicly said she would return to the hosting role, no official update has been given, and Sophie has now stepped in for the new season. In my opinion, Sophie brings a more natural and comfortable energy to the show.Disclaimer: This article is based on the author's opinions.As someone who has hosted Love Island Australia, she already understands the format and knows how to guide conversations in a way that feels relaxed but engaging. Her tone fits the show’s rhythm, and her presence allows contestants to speak freely without the interactions feeling forced or scripted.With Maura likely away due to other commitments, including speculation about filming The Traitors, Sophie’s presence feels less like a temporary replacement and more like a strong choice. Whether or not she continues long term, I believe Sophie fits better with the current direction of Aftersun and adds a smoother flow to the aftershow experience.Sophie’s hosting style feels more suited for Love Island USA Aftersun View this post on Instagram Instagram PostIn my view, a good aftershow host needs to make people feel at ease while still keeping the conversation interesting. Sophie Monk does this well. Her experience with Love Island Australia clearly shows that she understands how to lead interviews, when to add humour, and when to let the guests take the lead. That balance is important on Aftersun, where the tone can shift between light banter and emotional reflection.Sophie’s comfort in this role makes her presence feel less like a newcomer and more like a natural fit. The way she interacts with contestants shows that she’s listening, not just reading from a cue card. That kind of connection helps bring out more honest moments from the cast, which is what viewers want from an aftershow.On the other hand, Maura Higgins often felt like a crossover from a different version of the franchise. While she has her own charm, her hosting never quite settled into a consistent rhythm on Aftersun. In my opinion, Sophie’s hosting style feels more in sync with the overall vibe of Love Island USA and offers a better flow for post-episode discussions.Maura may return, but Sophie has made this space her own View this post on Instagram Instagram PostThere’s still no clear answer on when—or if—Maura Higgins will return to Aftersun. She had mentioned publicly that she would be back, but her schedule likely shifted due to other projects. While her return remains possible, I think Sophie Monk has already taken ownership of the space in a meaningful way.What stands out about Sophie is her ease in handling different tones. Whether she’s laughing with contestants or asking questions about tougher moments, she doesn’t feel out of place. That versatility is valuable, especially in a show that changes moods quickly. Her presence doesn’t distract from the conversations—it helps shape them.Even if Sophie is only hosting this season, her approach has left a mark. I believe Aftersun benefits from someone who understands both the format and the audience, and Sophie brings both. Her background with the franchise gives her insight, and her delivery is smooth without being rehearsed. And it’s not just me—fans are saying it too.“Here for Sophie Monk as the new host of Aftersun. She killed it & I loved the messy Cely/Callum questions,” one tweet read.Love Island USA episodes are available to stream on Peacock.