NRL Star Terrell May Confronts Video Leak and Personal Struggles
West Tigers forward Terrell May has publicly addressed the fallout from a recent intimate video leak, revealing he sought legal counsel and made strategic social media moves that sparked intense speculation among rugby league fans. The 26-year-old prop, who is gearing up for his second season with the Wests Tigers after transferring from the Sydney Roosters, also discussed his commitment to the club and plans to enhance his online presence.
Moving Past the Video Saga and Social Media Strategy
In an interview with the Daily Telegraph, May stated he has "moved past" the intimate video incident, which led him to contact lawyers. He emphasized that Tigers supporters can expect to see more of him online in the coming months, as he has enlisted a professional team to manage his social media channels. This decision allows May to concentrate on his vlogging, streaming, and podcasting ventures without distraction.
"I just think last year I was going too fast, I think I needed to take baby steps and reset," May explained. "I wasn't on my Instagram for like two months, wasn't doing Mayday podcast for two months, I was just completely locked in to footy and had a big rest because I felt like I drained myself last year."
His temporary disappearance from social media fueled rumours among fans that he wanted to leave the Wests Tigers. However, the Samoan international dismissed these claims, clarifying that he "didn't want to be in the spotlight" during the off-season. This desire for privacy prompted him to request the Tigers exclude him from their social media posts temporarily.
Family Ties and Career Highlights
May, who was awarded the Kelly-Barnes Medallist last year, expressed openness to remaining with the Wests Tigers for the remainder of his NRL career, embracing the club's orange, black, and white colours. His younger brother, Taylan May, joined the Tigers in June on a train-and-trial deal and has since secured a contract extension through 2026 and 2027 due to impressive performances in the centres.
The siblings share a long-term goal of playing alongside their older brother, Tyrone May, a halfback currently with Hull KR in the Super League. It is understood that Tyrone is prepared to return to the NRL, where he previously won a premiership with the Penrith Panthers in 2021.
Mental Health Battle and Personal Revelation
In a deeply personal revelation, Terrell May disclosed that he nearly took his own life in 2024 while still under contract with the Roosters. Speaking on the Mayday podcast with his brother Taylan, May described a terrifying bout of depression that brought him to the brink.
"I was driving to Roosters training, I told him coach Trent Robinson I'm quitting," May recalled. "I'm turning the car around to ring Robbo to tell him I'm quitting. I'm done. I was just done, with everything. I called my manager and I told him, I'm not playing anymore, rip my contract up, I don't care anymore. I don't know what happened, it was just one of those days where I was just depressed as."
May admitted that suicidal thoughts crossed his mind during this dark period. "As bad as it sounds, I wanted to properly drive my car into a wall," he said. "I was on the M4, I wanted to drive my car into the wall, bro."
He credited religion and faith with helping him navigate these challenges. "To be honest, God fixed many problems in my life," May shared. "Every time I'm feeling down, I know there's one person I can count on - and that's him."
This candid discussion highlights May's resilience and ongoing journey, both on and off the field, as he prepares for the upcoming NRL season with renewed focus and support.
