Influencer's Reality TV Debut Overshadowed by Famous Ex
Sydney influencer Holly Young made her highly anticipated reality television debut on Sunday's season premiere of Big Brother Australia. However, what many fans watching the launch may not have realised is that the brunette contestant shares a romantic history with one of Australia's most prominent luxury real estate agents.
Whirlwind Romance and Sudden Split
Daily Mail can exclusively reveal that Young was previously in a relationship with Gavin Rubinstein, the star of the hit series Luxe Listings Sydney. The couple went public with their romance in August 2024, treating their followers to a series of intimate holiday photographs that suggested a blossoming relationship.
Their romance, however, was short-lived. Sources close to the pair confirmed they quietly ended their relationship just a few months later. Insiders revealed the split followed an 'intense overseas trip' that highlighted fundamental differences between them.
'Things got complicated when they started travelling together,' one source disclosed. 'It was fast-paced from the beginning, but they were just in different places in life.' The glamorous facade apparently cracked under the pressures of their hectic schedules and contrasting life goals.
Moving On: New Partners and Social Circles
Following their separation, Holly Young briefly moved on with entrepreneur Richie Harkham, who is notably a close friend of Rubinstein's. The pair were spotted spending Christmas together at his family's Hunter Valley winery, sparking rumours of a new romance.
Meanwhile, Rubinstein, who was Ray White's top seller before founding his own agency, The Rubinstein Group, celebrated the New Year in New York City without Young. He subsequently jetted off to Saint Barthélemy for another luxury holiday.
Rubinstein has since moved on with Made In Chelsea star Ruby Adler. The couple were recently seen arriving in Sydney after a lavish holiday in Los Angeles, confirming their transnational romance.
As for Holly Young, she has been cementing her status in Sydney's influencer circles. She is frequently seen at high-profile fashion events and has been building connections with other reality television stars. Earlier this year, she was photographed enjoying a sunny day in Bondi with Married At First Sight bride Carina Mirabile.
Big Brother's Return Wins Viewer Praise
The new season of Big Brother Australia, featuring Holly Young, has been met with an overwhelmingly positive response from viewers. Fans flooded social media on Sunday night, praising the 'authentic' and 'refreshing' new cast, calling it a return to the show's original format.
'To give the show credit, I like the fact that viewers are given the platform to watch the cast authentically,' one fan wrote online. 'Unlike every other reality show currently on air that manufacture villains and controversy. This makes me excited.'
Another viewer added: 'Mel was fantastic, the cast lacks a little diversity but seem like a good, NORMAL bunch. The look and feel of the whole show is Big Brother. They delivered on everything they promised.'
Several housemates have already captured the audience's attention, including Colin, the 21-year-old MMA fighter with a distinctive mullet and moustache. Viewers have praised his humour and carefree energy, with one fan joking: 'Loving the bromance with Vinny and Colin.'
Vinnie, a 21-year-old barber, is also emerging as an early favourite, while viewers are rallying behind Jane and Mia, calling them 'the ones to watch.' In contrast, 49-year-old publishing boss Michael has already been branded the show's first 'most annoying' housemate by critical viewers.
