The former Dancing With The Stars pro has confirmed his departure from the show while opening up about times when he felt he was treated unfairly because of his weight.
In an emotional statement on Instagram he wrote, “I’m saddened to be writing this, but after the recent release of information regarding my place on DWTS I feel it’s only right to speak out.
“For the last four years I gave my all to the show and dedicated all of my time and energy to it, but sadly it’s not all the glitter and glamour it’s portrayed to be, at least from my side of the story.
“I’ve been living under a dark shadow for the last three years which has deeply affected my mental health and caused what I now see as real damage to my well-being.
“I used to use my humour to deflect how I felt before someone could bring it up and call me ‘the fat one’.
“To be judged based on my size, and not my ability – from hurtful text messages, whispers on set and being called into a toxic meeting by production to discuss my size in 2019 not meeting their standards, has demoralised me and made me feel like I was worthless.”
He said that the RTE documentary “Unspoken”, which focusses on eating disorders of men in Ireland, encouraged him to share his own story.
“Having experienced first hand how I was treated by this industry behind closed doors and the affects it’s had on me, I really hope it will stop it happening to anyone again,” he wrote.
“Words have consequences and can hurt, and I hope that the people who have inflicted this damage never speak to their loved ones or children in the way that I’ve been spoken to.
“And then to find out that after the Covid pandemic that has effected everyone and everything, particularly in the entertainment industry, the show is back but I’m not – after 18 months waiting for the phone call.
“I feel that in 2021 it is completely morally wrong to view anyone or treat anyone in this way, I wanted to speak up because I’m also a man who is proud of who he is just not the way he looks any more.
“With the new year incoming I want to focus my energy on teaching and sharing my skills with everyone, regardless of size, weight or gender and make sure I never make anyone who wants to dance feel like I’ve been made to,” he said.
He concluded by sending love to those who have reached out to him during his hard times as well as members of the show who will also not be returning for the next season.
“Despite all of this, I want to thank the team of pros who’ve reached out and those on set who were always so kind and professional. To the other four pros that have also lost their jobs, I’m sending love.
“Also a big shout out to Judge Jules, you’re an inspiration to the nation.
“I hope you all have a lovely Christmas and let this be a reminder to reach out to those in your life who may be struggling but don’t say it outright.”
Many familiar faces shared their support in the comments of the post with James Patrice writing, “Will miss you around the place Ryan, always so much fun and so obliging when I’d be harassing you for chats. And fair play on keeping her lit and speaking your truth. See you soon.”