Love Island fans were left reeling as Jacques O'Neill decided his time in the villa was done. The rugby player, who also happens to be Gemma Owen's ex, made the decision to exit the show just hours after former contestant Adam Collard entered the villa and set his sights on Paige Thorne.
In earlier episodes, fans saw Jacques struggle to make things right with partner Paige after his head was turned during her time in Casa Amor. Despite choosing to remain in a couple with the Welsh beauty, Jacques was in the doghouse when he confessed he'd shared kisses with other girls.
Now the tables have turned as newcomer Adam Collard is seen taking a blushing Paige to one side for a chat where he confesses that he'd like to "explore their connections". This, paired with some he-said-she-said gossip from the other islanders, tips Jacques over the edge and he flips, deciding to confront Adam.
Read more: Love Island's Jacques launches foul-mouthed rant about Adam as Gemma stirs pot
During tonight's episode, Gemma starts to stir the pot by telling Jacques that Adam has been sharing his opinions on the rugby star behind his back. Quick to lose his cool, Jacques leaps off the sofa and seeks out Paige to demand answers. Former contestant Amber Gill, whose running commentary of the show so far has proved extremely popular, said: "Jax is so insecure and why is he shouting at Paige like that go and talk to him?"
But the next day, things are clearly too much for an emotional Jacques. He is seen pulling Paige onto the terrace, where he tells her: "You mean so much to me, do you know that? I just wish I could finish off my journey off with you in here, but I'm going to go home today."
There were mixed reactions to the news of his departure. Some fans admitted that they would miss seeing the former rugby star in the villa and offered messages of support.
Nigel Ball, on Twitter, said: "It’s a shame Jacques has quit he was really entertaining" and @louptyloups added: "I hope Jacques is okay tho and has a strong support system at home."
But others were glad to see the back of him, accusing him of toxic behaviour and mistreating partner Paige. Paul Tunstall tweeted: "I'm glad Jacques has left. He wasn't good for Paige", while others had a stronger opinion, including @itsmetheHBIC who said: "Jacques leaving the villa is truly the best news I've ever heard! Goodbye, Jacques! We will not miss you!!"
Though Jacques's departure made for some emotional viewing, fans have questioned whether more happened away from the cameras. "Jacques leaving like this doesn't make sense. Did stuff happen that they've not shown?" one asked on the official Reddit message board, while another added: "I really don't believe it was his choice to leave."
As he announced his decision to leave to the villa, fans expressed a desire for him to find the support he needs. One fan said: "Actually feel a bit sorry for Jacques - he said he hadn’t felt himself for a while. Think we forget the mental toll this show inflicts. Hope he’s ok, wish him all the best."
Jacques's departure from the villa was announced hours ahead of the broadcast, with a spokesperson saying: "Jacques has made the decision to leave the Villa. He will explain his reasons to the Islanders during tonight’s episode. We fully support his decision and look forward to seeing what’s next for Jacques."
Love Island continues tomorrow at 9pm on ITV2 and ITV Hub. Episodes are available the following morning on BritBox.
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