Tyrique Hyde has responded after facing backlash online over comments comparing Love Island contestant Samraj to YouTuber Vikkstar123. Some members of the South Asian community accused the former Love Island star of making a racist remark following the comparison, sparking debate across social media.

Addressing the criticism on his Kick Livestream, Tyrique doubled down on his comments, insisting that the comparison was intended as a compliment rather than a racial jab. He argued that his words had been taken out of context and rejected claims that he was targeting Samraj's ethnicity.

"I can't believe it. I'm the furthest thing from racist," Tyrique said while sitting next to fellow Love Island star Amber Gill. When the clips were posted on TSB Instagram page many defended Tyrique. One Resident wrote, "Wait what’s wrong with saying u look like someone. ah please allow it yall twist it and make out it’s wrong."

In a separate comment, he added: "It’s not racist to say people look like one another it can be seen as disrespectful yes but not racist."

But one Resident disagreed writing: "All  these comments defending him have to be rage bait right."

In other news, as well as hosting his daily Love Island Kick Stream, Tyrique will make guest appearances on Love Island: Aftersun. Former Love Islanders Shakira Khan, Toni Laites and Yasmin Pettet will host the programme's revamped daily after show. Meanwhile former contestants Casey O'Gorman and podcaster Joe Baggs will join Hyde on Aftersun with Maya Jama on Sunday night.