Love Island's Elicia Bailey has spoken out after Priya Jaswal called her bitter and jealous, and made derogatory comments about her job at National Rail, during a dramatic episode of the ITV reality show.
What Happened During 'The Grafties'
On Wednesday 22nd July, Love Island broke the fourth wall by showing Islanders clips from spin-off shows Love Island Aftersun and Love Island The Debrief during an event called 'The Grafties'. One clip featured dumped Islander Elicia Bailey stating on Aftersun that she believed Priya Jaswal was the "biggest game player" in the villa. Elicia questioned the genuineness of Priya's feelings for Aidan Murphy, arguing that Priya only showed interest after Elicia chose Finley Maddock over Aidan.
Watching the clip, Priya became visibly upset and accused Elicia of coming across as "bitter and jealous".
Priya's Job-Shaming Comments
The following morning, Priya remained frustrated and told fellow Islanders: "I don't care what Elicia says. I don't care. It's cringy. Go back to the National Rail." She continued: "Elicia, you work for the National Rail, why are you f------ sitting in After Sun?"
Kavan Murphy immediately called her out, stating: "There's nothing wrong with working for National Rail, alright?" Later, Aidan also pulled Priya aside, expressing his disagreement with how she had spoken about Elicia and her job.
Elicia's Response on The Debrief
Straight after the episode aired, Elicia appeared on Love Island The Debrief podcast with hosts Shakira Khan, Yasmin Pettet, and Toni Laites. Responding to the accusations, Elicia said: "I'm really surprised by the bitter and jealous comments because her reacting the way she did seems quite bitter, about the fact that I called out what everyone else is thinking."
She added: "The thing that we clashed with in the villa is any opinion that anybody had that could affect the way that she was viewed or that she didn't necessarily agree with - that was it. Like, she shut it straight down. I think that's where, as well, like, the game player card would probably be her."
Support from Aidan
Toni pointed out that several Islanders, including Aidan, had stuck up for Elicia. Elicia replied: "That was so nice from Aidan, like I actually will give him that. That's really lovely of him because not once did I feel like, when I was in there, he had my back, as such. There were times where I was upset about certain reactions and things that were said, and it was really nice to see that he had my back last night."
The incident has sparked discussion about job-shaming and respect for all professions, with many fans supporting Elicia and condemning Priya's remarks.
