:quality(85):upscale()/2025/11/13/910/n/49351758/feb75494691644b3364d61.38442305_.jpg?ssl=1 "Amaya Papaya Friend: What It Is and Why You Should Have One")
In most friend groups, there is always one person who can validate your emotions like no other. They're both informal therapist and delusional publicist, sounding board and talker, and most importantly, they're the kind of person who isn't afraid to let their guard down, giving you complete permission to fall apart. This is what I like to call Amaya Papaya's friend.
Yes, based on Amaya “Papaya” Espinal from the seventh season of Love Island USA (who also our “Good Person of the Year”), this is the kind of person you definitely want to see in your life. Why? Because as a founder “sensitive gangster” movementEspinal universally favored emotional and confident villains. She reminded her fellow contestants and viewers at home that you are good enough just the way you are. And if you've ever wanted one of these friends in your friend group, here's what one looks like, why it's important, and how to find (or become) yours.
What is Amaya Papaya's friend?
As you might expect from the title, Amaya's Friend Papaya is based on the Love Island USA star. There have been several instances on the reality show where Espinal has amplified her emotions, showing everyone that strength comes from vulnerability. From defending her expressive nature during the “Stand on Business” challenge To comforts Nick (also known as “Mom's Meatball”), when he cried because he missed his family, Espinal always appeared. That's why an Amaya Papaya friend is someone who will always be there for you – completely unfiltered, loyal and always ready to make you feel seen.
So how do you recognize an Amaya Papaya friend? While Espinal has had her own Amaya-isms that have made her who she is, there are still a few standout personality traits worth noting. Of course, Amaya Papaya's friends can show up differently in each friendship, but here are some common characteristics:
- They cry about almost everything, so you don't have to feel upset about the same strong emotions.
- . . . Because they cry about almost anything, they are extremely empathetic and understanding.
- They give the best pep talks even when they need it themselves.
- They never judge you, but always express their opinion.
- They accuse you of inappropriate behavior, but they will also defend you to the death.
- They provide comic relief in situations that would not otherwise be funny.
- They are your biggest fans.
Why it's best to have a friend from Amaya and Papaya
Sometimes life can be messy. And when plans fall apart, exes follow new girls on Instagram, and group chats blow up in the middle of the night, you need an Amaya Papaya friend. This is because, no matter what, they will always show up physically and emotionally (even if that means they cry more than you do about the situation).
But Amaya Papaya friends are important not only during difficult times in life. At their core, they are your biggest supporter, constantly praising you for who you are and what you achieve. These types of friends truly see their loved ones as whole people, noticing when they are stressed, sad, angry, or simply distant. (And let's be honest: someone who truly sees you and understands all your struggles is an underrated part of friendship.)
In a world where you can find sofa friendA bonus friendA VIP friendor sleepover friendsometimes the best thing is to just have Amaya Papaya as a friend.
Taylor Andrews is a senior editor at Popsugar magazine, specializing in topics including sex, relationships, dating, sexual health, mental health, travel and more. With eight years of editorial experience, Taylor has extensive experience in content creation and storytelling. Before joining PS in 2021, she worked at Cosmopolitan.
