"We are not meant to be using our social media and we're meant to keep it hush-hush, but sometimes it is better to speak out. I knew going into this that it'd be highly edited, I was sweet with that. But watching back last night, what transpired and what actually happened is an absolute joke."
Continuing, the Newcastle tradie admitted that he is the first to put his hand up and take the blame when he has done something wrong, “but what really transpired at that lunch yesterday was a crock of sh*t. My main concern is the hate to my mum and little brother... It's absolutely ridiculous."
Like many before him, Josh went on to urge fans of the controversial dating series to “seriously think” about the personal and emotional damage that comes with staring on hit show.
Watch below: Josh Pihlak's relative reveals what really happened during homestay
"I just can't stress enough to people who are thinking about trying out for this show... have a good hard think because when you sign that contract, any footage and audio can be spliced and cut up however they choose. It says in the fine print, 'you may or may not be received in a positive light' and me being naive, I thought, why not? It is so disappointing to see how they made that come across and how much they left out."
"I will cop the slack but it's not fair that my mum is copping it when it's not true. I was happy with getting a bad edit, but when it gets personal like that and everyone's receiving death threats, it's a joke."
Many of Josh’s co-stars rallied behind him, praising the 28-year-old for his courage to speak out.
"So proud of you," Natasha Spencer wrote.
"I am beyond proud of you! Well done for staying true to yourself. You were only honest and genuine through the whole process and I am so sorry that this happened to you... to most of us!! Seriously, to anyone even thinking about applying for next season, really take into consideration what you're actually signing up for," bride Connie Crayden wrote.
Even bride Stacey Hampton, who is currently married to this season’s drama instigator, Michael Goonan, weighed in on the nasty users attacking Josh and his family online.
"Love you, Josh. We all know how genuine you are and NO ONE deserves death threats. Speaks volumes of the audience we attracted. Disgusting and need to look in the mirror when they speak."
Recognising the repercussions of his decision, Josh confirmed that MAFS showrunners removed his Instagram ‘blue tick’ after he chose to speak out, stating that he’s fully prepared to be slapped with a lawsuit.
"I’m getting sued for sure. Jesus, can’t wait for 'em to take my 2001 Subaru Impreza with three bald tyres and the finances I haven’t paid off."
This article originally appeared on InStyle.
