The Traitors Fans Criticize Michael Rapaport’s Comment on Colton Underwood
Michael Rapaport has drawn significant criticism from fans of *The Traitors* for his comments directed at Colton Underwood. The controversial remark occurred during the fifth episode, which premiered on Peacock on Thursday.
Controversial Comment Sparks Outrage
During the Roundtable discussion, Rapaport implied that Underwood’s ability to conceal his sexuality for many years made him a skilled liar. Underwood, known for his past on *The Bachelorette* and as the 23rd Bachelor, came out as gay in April 2021. He has since married Jordan C. Brown.
This comment led to a tense exchange. Underwood retorted, suggesting that hiding his true self for 29 years was anything but enjoyable. Rapaport quickly backtracked, stating his remarks were unrelated to Underwood’s sexuality, insisting, “I think you came into this game loving the idea of being a Traitor.”
Backlash from Cast Members and Viewers
The fallout was immediate. Other cast members, including figure skater Johnny Weir, defended Underwood. Weir remarked that one cannot blame someone for being forced into a closet for most of their life. Fellow contestants Maura Higgins and Yam Yam Arocho also criticized Rapaport’s comment, labeling it a “very low blow.”
- Johnny Weir: “You can’t blame somebody being forced into a closet for the majority of their life.”
- Maura Higgins and Yam Yam Arocho: Agreed that Rapaport’s remark was inappropriate.
Viewers took to social media platforms like X to express their anger. Comments included accusations of disrespect and calls to vote Rapaport off the show. Many found his remarks to be homophobic and inappropriate.
Additional Criticism and Rapaport’s Banishment
Beyond the comment about Underwood, fans also pointed out Rapaport’s misuse of the word “commiserate,” which was corrected by fellow contestant Rob Rausch. Furthermore, his unconventional eating habits, including consuming pasta directly from his plate, drew negative attention.
Ultimately, Rapaport was banished from the game. In a reflection after his eviction, he addressed the situation. “It sucks, but I felt backed into a corner and I tried to fight my way out of it,” he stated. He expressed regret for any offense caused, clarifying that his intention was never to hurt Underwood or others in the house.
As the conversation around *The Traitors* continues, many viewers are left questioning the implications of Rapaport’s remarks and the larger conversations about representation and respect in entertainment.
