Former Love Island contestant George Knight has responded to fans who've questioned his behaviour following his departure from the programme.
George's Love Island Journey
The 28 year old professional footballer entered the most recent series of ITV's dating reality show as one of the initial bombshells. He featured in an early dramatic moment alongside Yasmin Hadlow. The pair were also given the responsibility by presenter Maya Jama to select two Islanders for elimination. Audiences witnessed him forming connections with multiple fellow contestants, including Robyn.
Yet, after barely a week, he decided to exit the villa early of his own accord. His departure wasn't broadcast in an episode, though viewers watched Lorenzo Alessi inform the remaining group about George's choice to go.
Reasons for Leaving
George subsequently featured on The Sun's Showbiz Fix podcast and provided further insight into his reasons for walking away. He disclosed that his parents had contacted producers and they permitted him to speak with them regarding developments back home. He stated: "It is all very private. But it was a health concern with a member of the immediate family."
Addressing the Critics
Certain fans have noticed that George, regardless of whatever situation he's dealing with at home, remains highly active, posting photographs from various occasions and promotional content with brands across social media. George has now responded to these criticisms and challenged those who take issue with his choices.
He outlined his current philosophy on life in a brief video chat with Capital FM, which was posted on their Instagram account. The post was titled: "Love Island's George addresses claims he's 'everywhere but with family' after shock villa exit."
George's Response
In the clip, George discusses how he's managing his family duties alongside everything else he wishes to pursue. He states: "The motto is in the Knight household is life continues. We crack on.....I still pursue and do things that I want to do, that I'm interested in, which naturally you might see because they're not things that I like to do in my room on my own."
Making clear he won't retreat from public view, he discloses he'll be heading to Box Park for England's opening World Cup group match this Wednesday. He insists he remains available to a select group of people and that nothing else has altered.
Concluding with a direct message to critics, he declares: "I'm still going to go out, I'm still going to do loads of shopping and see my friends, go to events, watch the football....So I'm balancing it all. Anyone that's got an issue with that can do one."
Love Island continues at 9pm on ITV2 and ITVX.
