Michael Rapaport has faced backlash from viewers and fellow contestants after making a comment about Colton Underwood's sexuality during the latest episode of The Traitors US. The incident occurred at the Roundtable in episode five, when Rapaport suggested Underwood was adept at keeping secrets because he had hidden his sexuality for years.
Underwood, who came out as gay in 2021, responded: “You think it was fun for 29 years of my life?” Rapaport then attempted to clarify, saying his remark was about the game, not Underwood's sexuality. However, the damage was done, with figure skater Johnny Weir stating: “You can’t blame somebody being forced into a closet for the majority of their life.”
Viewers on social media were quick to condemn Rapaport, with one calling his comment a “homophobic rant.” Another wrote: “Michael Rapaport proving he was a pos with a homophobic rant means that we all knew exactly who he was this whole time.”
Rapaport was banished from the castle after the heated exchange. In a post-elimination interview, he apologised: “I meant what I meant within the context of the game. It had nothing to do with his sexuality. I really, seriously apologize if I offended Colton or anybody in the house.”
