Thomas “TJ” Palma, born December 16, 2001, is 23 years old as of mid-2025, originally from Pleasantville, New York and residing in Tampa, Florida. Standing at roughly 6 ft 0 in (183 cm), his height, collegiate athleticism, and confident demeanor helped him make a splash as a bombshell on Love Island USA Season 7, where he entered on Day 14 and exited on Day 24.
Early Life, Education & Entrepreneurial Drive
Raised in suburban Westchester County, TJ grew up playing baseball before becoming a standout pitcher at the University of Tampa, where he graduated in 2024 and helped lead the team to an NCAA Division II national championship.
Beyond sports, TJ studied entrepreneurship. He launched a profitable Airbnb business in Tampa soon after graduation—scaling revenue from zero to around $35K/month in under six months. Now a “Superhost,” he positions himself as a successful young entrepreneur both on and off camera.
Love Island USA Season 7 Journey
TJ joined the villa as one of two bombshells introduced in Episode 15, alongside Andreina Santos, during a challenge hosted by Megan Thee Stallion. From Day 14, he navigated romantic matches with original Islanders, ultimately coupling up with Vanna Einerson, and later Iris Kendall. Their connection deepened, only for TJ to be eliminated in a dramatic group vote on Day 24, just days before the finale.
His emotional exit was marked by a heartfelt video message from Iris—leading even a typically composed TJ to tear up on the show.
Physical Presence & Persona
- Age: 23 (born December 16, 2001)
- Height: 6 ft 0 in (183 cm), based on athlete profiles and official reporting
- Build: Athletic and lean, reflecting his collegiate baseball training and active lifestyle
His on-screen identity blends East Coast swagger with Midwestern warmth, warmed up by his approachable presence and entrepreneurial mindset. His tilt toward authenticity—especially in vulnerability—earned him fan admiration deeper than just looks or storyline.
Estimated Net Worth (2025)
TJ’s net worth hasn’t been officially disclosed. Based on publicly available info—Airbnb business revenue (up to $35K/month), collegiate athletics, and post-show brand opportunities—a reasonable estimate is $150,000–$300,000. This reflects early-stage entrepreneurship and emerging media exposure.
TJ Palma at a Glance
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Thomas “TJ” Palma |
| Date of Birth | December 16, 2001 |
| Age (2025) | 23 |
| Height | ~6 ft 0 in (183 cm) |
| Hometown | Pleasantville, New York |
| Current Base | Tampa, Florida |
| Occupations | Entrepreneur (Airbnb), Ex-baseball, Content Creator |
| Villa Entry | Day 14 (Bombshell) |
| Villa Exit | Day 24 (Dumped via public vote) |
| Love Island Partner | Vanna Einerson, then Iris Kendall |
| Estimated Net Worth | ~$150K–$300K (speculative) |
Personality & Public Reception
TJ’s villa story resonated for a few reasons:
- Emotional Depth: His reaction to Iris’s farewell message revealed genuine vulnerability not common in the villa setting.
- Real-world grit: He earned respect for mixing hustle (Airbnb business), athleticism, and romantic openness.
- Post-show support: After elimination, he bonded publicly with fellow dumped contestant Charlie Georgiou over similar heartbreak—demonstrating authenticity beyond scripted dynamics.
- Fan Outcry: His exit caused controversy, with online critics labeling the season “loveless” and claiming the vote disregarded genuine connection.
Since leaving the villa, TJ has been spotted reconnecting with Iris Kendall in Los Angeles, sparking speculation of a lasting bond beyond reality TV.
❓ FAQ: TJ Palma
Q: How old is TJ Palma?
A: He was born December 16, 2001, making him 23 as of mid-2025.
Q: How tall is TJ?
A: Approximately 6 ft 0 in (183 cm).
Q: What did he do before Love Island?
A: Played college baseball at University of Tampa (2024 national champion), studied entrepreneurship, and ran a successful Airbnb business in Tampa.
Q: When did he enter and leave Love Island USA?
A: Entered Day 14 (Casa Amor twist), coupled with original Islanders before being eliminated Day 24 after losing public vote.
Q: Was TJ in a relationship on show?
A: Yes—he was briefly coupled with Vanna Einerson, then Iris Kendall. Their connection deepened before his departure.
Q: What is his net worth?
A: Not publicly confirmed. Estimated around $150K–$300K based on business and early influencer potential.
Q: Is he still in touch with Iris?
A: Reportedly seen reconnecting in L.A., fueling speculation the two may explore life post-villa together.
Final Reflection: Beyond the Bombshell
TJ Palma arrived as the confident airport-bombshell—the entrepreneur with athletic pedigree and a quick personality. But it was the genuine heartbreak, visible tears, and real-world ambition that defined his storyline more than his energy. At 23, standing 6’0″, and returning to a successful business and budding social presence, TJ shows there’s more substance behind the showmanship.
While his villa arc lasted just 10 days, his impact lingered—not through fireworks, but through authenticity. And in a season criticized as formulaic or contrived, that felt revolutionary.