Big Brother Australia has been plunged into fresh controversy following the dramatic eviction of its first housemate, who left with a scathing verdict on a budding showmance.
Explosive Eviction Exit
Controversial contestant Michael Downs was voted out of the Big Brother house on Sunday, but not before delivering a parting shot that has set tongues wagging across Australia. The 47-year-old left a farewell message for his fellow housemates, specifically targeting the much-discussed romance between model Holly, 31, and aspiring MMA fighter Colin, 21.
Michael didn't hold back in his assessment, revealing he believes their connection won't survive outside the artificial environment of the Big Brother house. He accused Holly of 'playing a game' by starting a relationship with the younger contestant, suggesting her primary aim was to gain 'more notoriety outside of the house' through the on-screen alliance.
The evicted housemate claimed this strategic move was 'pretty obvious to everyone in the house except Colin', casting doubt on the authenticity of the relationship that has captivated viewers.
Fallout and Doubts Spread
Michael's blunt confession had an immediate impact on Colin, who was seen in his piece to camera beginning to question his romance with Holly. 'I can't even comprehend why she'd like me,' the 21-year-old confessed, adding they would be in 'completely different worlds' outside the house.
Colin's uncertainty echoed Michael's scepticism, with the younger housemate wondering, 'If something is too good to be true, it usually is, right?' This moment of doubt has thrown the future of their relationship into question just as Michael intended with his departing words.
Viewers and Previous Incidents Support Claims
It appears Michael and Colin aren't the only ones with doubts about the relationship's authenticity. Viewers have taken to social media platform X to praise Michael for calling out what they perceive as a fake showmance.
One viewer wrote: 'Michael is back in the house to drop some home truths! And he actually woke up right after he left, what perfect timing!' Another chimed in: 'Michael is all talk the moment he leaves but bro is 100% right.'
Further evidence supporting Michael's claims emerged from last week's episodes, where fans accused Holly of 'playing for the cameras'. In a viral TikTok clip, Holly was seen acting completely differently once she spotted the cameras, quickly becoming touchy with Colin after previously sitting separately from him.
One social media commenter noted: 'Couples make it to the end smart move!' implying Holly was strategically using the romance to improve her chances of winning Big Brother. Another added: 'She is a mess and using him,' while others expressed sympathy for Colin, suggesting Holly was 'playing with his emotions'.
The controversy continues to unfold as Ten Network has been approached for comment by Daily Mail Australia, though no official statement has been released regarding the authenticity of the relationship or Michael's explosive claims.