FBOY Island Australia is facing backlash after it was revealed finalist Justin McNairn was accused of domestic violence against his ex-wife in Estonia.
**CONTENT WARNING: The following discusses domestic abuse and may be distressing for some readers.
In June, So Dramatic! reported that Justin, who was revealed as a “Nice Guy” on the new Binge dating show, had “only recently finished court proceedings for being physically abusive” towards his blogger ex, Triinu Liis.
After the report was posted on So Dramatic!‘s Instagram page, a number of viewers slammed FBOY Island and its creative team for allowing him on the show.
“How does a record of [domestic violence] not automatically disqualify contestants on reality TV?” one follower questioned. “Especially one around dating. This is exactly why it’s such a huge problem in Australia.
“People who abuse their partners see [zero] consequences and victims have no support and are traumatised for life. F this show, [host] Abbie [Chatfield] & the producers.”
Another said it was “so [f*cked] up” and asked “WTF” Abbie was “doing working for this show”.
“You say you turn down so many jobs and are really picky,” they wrote. “This is what you pick? A show that gives an abuser a platform, and the chance to win money.
“So disappointing.”
What was the outcome of FBOY Island Australia star Justin McNairn’s relationship with Estonian blogger Triinu Liis?
The couple reportedly met online at the height of the coronavirus pandemic in early 2020, with Justin soon moving to Estonia to be with Triinu.
A month later, the pair were married. By ‘Spring 2022’, Justin and Triinu had already divorced.
When the court hearing concluded, one Estonian news outlet wrote that “a long saga [had] ended”.
“The criminal proceedings against Australian stripper Justin McNairn, launched 14 months ago on suspicion of close relationship violence, ended with opportunity.
“Prosecutors ended criminal proceedings against Justin McNairn due to lack of public interest in the proceedings, but at the same time admits that the man was guilty of physical abuse in a close relationship.”
According to another article from Estonian chronicle Kroonika, Justin “use[d] physical violence on Triinu Liisi at home.
“The police have had to intervene in the matter several times,” they wrote.
When contacted about Justin’s past, a Binge spokesperson told So Dramatic! that the show has a “thorough screening process”.
“[This] includes police checks, psychological tests and an extensive interview process to ensure there is a safe environment on the show for all contestants and production staff.
“In the case of this contestant, we became aware after production commenced of a historic matter when he resided overseas. In reviewing the issue, we have confirmed there were no charges against the individual.”
So Dramatic! has also contacted Justin for comment.
If you or anyone you know is struggling and needs support, call1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732 or Lifeline on 13 11 14, both of which provide trained counsellors you can talk with 24/7. You can also talk to someone from 1800RESPECT via online chat. If you are in immediate danger, call 000.
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