The $30 million toe in the water

Maura Higgins, the 35-year-old former Love Island star , has cemented her growing status as a transatlantic celebrity by walking in the Sports Illustrated runway show during Miami Swim Week.

This appearance highlights her successful transatlantic pivot, which includes hosting roles,a Golden Globes appearance, and a major talent agency contract, all building on her post-Love Island fame.

Her participation in the high-profile event follows a successful stint on The US Traitors earlier this year and a confirmed spot on the upcoming season of Dancing With The Stars this autumn.

Why 4,000 unsold units beccame the prize

Since her 2019 appearance on Love Island UK, where she finished fourth, Higgins has built one of the most impressive post-villa careers.

She has transitioned from influencer and fashion deals to become a prominent television personality in the United States,hosting Love Island USA:Aftersun and appearing on I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here! UK.

Her strategic moves include signing with the US-focused PR agency Align and the major talent firm Creative Artists Agency (CAA), which represents stars like Lady Gaga.

An echo of Sydney's 2024 institutional buy-up

Her red-carpet appearance at the Golden Globes earlier this year, where she mingled with A-listers and even posed for a photo with Snoop Dogg, signified her arrival in Hollywood circles.

Despite recent news that she stepped down from her hosting role on Love Island USA:Aftersun due to scheduling conflicts, her trajectory suggests a focused push to establish herself as a major entertainment figure in America, with bookmakers even giving her 2/1 odds on landing a major Hollywood movie role.

What auditors flagged in the May filing

As Higgins continues to build her US entertainment career, her financial backing from major talent agencies and PR firms raisses questions about the role of influence and networking in her success.

While her talent and charisma undoubtedly play a part, the extent to which her connections and representation have contributed to her rapid rise remains unclear.