Reality TV shows have become a platform for the LGBTQ+ community to find representation and break the boundaries of traditionally heterosexual genres. Streaming platforms like Netflix have launched inclusive dating series that allow contestants from different shows to come out and share their truth. Recently, Too Hot to Handle’s Chloe Veitch opened up about her sexuality journey after coming out as bisexual.
Veitch’s latest reality series, The Big Celebrity Detox, played a significant role in her journey of self-discovery. The show follows eight celebrities as they undergo “outlandish” health and self-improvement exercises to change their own lives for the better. Veitch’s experience on the show helped her come to terms with her sexual orientation. “I realised, ‘This is what’s bothering you – you’re bisexual and you haven’t told anyone,'” she told The Sun.
Veitch admitted that going on “heterosexual dating shows” had held her back from coming out because she was “anxious about public opinion.” However, her time on The Big Celebrity Detox has lifted the weight off her shoulders. She expressed her excitement about going out there and dating both guys and girls.
Veitch is not the first reality TV star from Too Hot to Handle to come out as bisexual. Francesca Farago, another contestant from the same show, came out as bisexual during the series and has been vocal about her queerness. Farago has since embarked on a relationship with trans TikTok influencer Jesse Sullivan and has defended him against transphobic trolls.
Reality TV shows continue to make space for the LGBTQ+ community, providing a platform for individuals to share their experiences and promote visibility. As Veitch said, “if I’m happy, that’s all that matters.” The more representation there is in reality TV, the more positive it will be for people to see that LGBTQ+ individuals are just like everyone else.