Love Island's executive producer has discussed Jacques O'Neill's shock exit from the show. The 23-year-old rugby player made the decision to leave the 2022 series last week as he felt he couldn't be himself.
Jacques, who was coupled up with Welsh paramedic Paige Thorne, told his fellow Islanders at the time: "So I feel like lately, I just can't be myself so I'm trying my best but I'm not a fake person and I'm not gonna start faking things and act like I'm, okay when things inside are not okay, so I'm gonna be leaving today."
He continued: "I just can't stick around and not be myself, it's not fair to me and it's not fair to Paige. For me and Paige to work I need to be at my best and if that means removing myself from the situation and waiting for Paige when she gets out, that's what I'm gonna do, so I'm gonna be leaving now." You can read more about his exit here.
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In the lead-up to Jacques' departure, tensions in the villa rose after the Islander learned that bombshell Adam Collard, who expressed an interest in Paige, had been talking about him behind his back. "If he wants to f**king go, I'll go, mate," Jacques was heard saying before pressing Paige for the details.
The next morning Jacques decided to leave, and the speed of his decision left many wondering at home if producers had stepped in behind the scenes. However, in an interview with Deadline, ITV bosses stated this was not the case and that Jacques left of his own accord.
Love Island's executive producer, Mike Spencer told the publication: "Jacques is amazing. We love Jacques. When you date, your emotions are naturally up and down. Finding love is not a simple thing, that’s why the show is so relatable.
"Jacques was on his own journey and he had a strong connection with Paige but sometimes you have to think about yourself and that's what Jacques did. We respected his decision to head home but I think he’s excited to be on Aftersun on Sunday to discuss his journey."
He added: "I think Jacques felt like his time was up and as producers we have to respect his decision. Adam came in and got on with a lot of the girls. Did that impact Jacques' decision to leave? That would be something Jacques would have to explain."
Jacques is due to appear on Love Island's spin-off show Aftersun on Sunday, July 17 at 9pm. For more showbiz and television stories get our newsletter here.
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