Joe Garratt’s mother has defended her son, after he was accused of “emotionally controlling” Lucie Donlan during his time on Love Island.
The sandwich maker, who was dumped from the Island during last night’s show, came under fire from Women’s Aid, after fans slammed the way he was treating Lucie.
Speaking out against the backlash, Joe’s mum branded the claims as “sheer rubbish”.
“I know my son and he’s not like how he’s being portrayed,” she told the MailOnline.
“Both myself and his sister are his best friends. He doesn’t emotionally control anyone. What has been said in the newspapers today is just sheer rubbish, that is not my boy.”
She continued: “I see him every day of the week and there’s no way he would make a girl cry. He’s a normal, loving 22-year-old lad.
“He’s got hundreds of friends, he goes to the gym every day. They all love him. He goes and plays rugby at the local club, they all love him.”
“No friend he’s got, boy or girl, nor any of his ex-girlfriends have got a bad word to say about him. It’s a real shame this has happened,” she added.
According to reports, Love Island received over 800 Ofcom complaints over Joe and his behaviour during his time on the show.
Considering the amount of backlash he has received, ITV bosses have been keeping Joe at a safe house following his departure from the villa, as part of the programme’s duty of care to the contestants.
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