Myha’la Herrold, the Celebrity Traitors star banished on the show last week, has accused the reality TV programme of having “unconscious racial and cultural bias” in its format. The Telegraph has more.
The American actress, 30, was the second contestant banished from the latest series, after the departure of Richard E Grant, in an episode that aired on Thursday.
Discussing her experience on the popular BBC show, the Industry actress said she had sealed her own fate by making an alliance with Grant, but added that she believed her race might have played a role.
Responding to a comment alleging racism under her Instagram post about her time on the show, Herrold wrote: “I sealed my own fate! And that early in the game there is VERY little to grasp on to, and I gave them… a lot.
“However, I do agree that unconscious racial and cultural bias exists in this game where my authenticity or honesty or the ways in which I choose to express myself look suspicious to people who are unfamiliar with people like me.”
The initial comment, written by Chantel Sachanna, a hair and skincare entrepreneur, said: “Unfortunately you were banished because you are BLACK. This is a consistent thread in this racist show.”
However, Herrold defended her co-stars after they voted her out, adding: “I had this fear coming into the game, as I am a BIG fan and also clocked right away how prevalent this is in this game. And I came in knowing I’d be the only American (apart from Honorary British National Treasure Jerry Hall).
“I’m not saying it’s right, I’m not saying racism doesn’t exist, but I do have to defend my dear friends on this show who in no way consciously put bias on me because of my race.”
The format of the award-winning BBC show sees a group of “Faithful” contestants attempt to identify the “Traitors” among them.
Herrold continued: “I do think games like this should allow more conversation around unconscious bias and how, when under pressure, people (society) gravitate towards things they know and understand or subsequently push away from things they don’t.
“It’s all love, and I REALLY genuinely appreciate your support.”
Worth reading in full.
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Aren’t you supposed to be able to recognise a ‘celebrity’, Isn’t that what it means.?
Remember: every failure of a black person is the fault of every white person.
I don’t care. So what?
She appears to have started her victimhood gripe and then got herself totally confused. File under privileged and stupid.