Trending Now: Love is Blind UK star shares ‘life changing’ update as fans left ‘crying’ – Fans React

The Love Is Blind star faced social media backlash after the show, leading him to seek therapy

Love Is Blind UK star Tom Stroud has shared a ‘life changing’ update after facing brutal backlash following his time on the show.

The Netflix star featured in Series One of the UK spin-off show, where he quickly bonded with Southampton make-up artist Maria Benkh.

While they initially clicked, Tom ultimately said ‘no’ to Maria at the altar, after a rough period in their relationship. He had grown concerned about their cultural differences and opposing views on gender roles.

In one instance, Maria offered to pay for breakfast after Tom had taken her out for dinner the night before. But she wasn’t happy that he let her foot the bill because she believed men should step up as ‘providers’ in their relationships. Tom, on the other hand, didn’t want a “traditional” relationship.

Two years on from his TV stint, Tom has revealed he sought therapy after the show and it changed his life. Taking to Instagram and TikTok on Monday (March 23), he shared a series of images describing his journey since the series. “I didn’t find love, but I did find something else,” he started.

The reality star went on to explain that he faced brutal backlash on social media for “expressing his views around equality and gender roles”.

“I found attention from the show really tough to deal with,” Tom explained. “The show’s welfare team hooked me up with a therapist to help navigate social media noise. Her name was Louise. Louise changed my life.”

Tom attended weekly therapy sessions with Louise, which inspired him to start a men’s community called The Shoulder to Shoulder, alongside his friend Dan Shrigley. The group aims to help men build a strong community of friends, and already has over 1,700 members.

Fans quickly showered Tom with praise, with many applauding his growth over the years. One fan said: “I’m so proud of how far you’ve come on your journey.”

A second added: “I love it. The universe gave you the woman you needed from LIB – even if it wasn’t the one you got together with!” While someone else shared: “Hey so now I’m crying.”

Love Is Blind UK is streaming now on Netflix.