Zara McDermott faces backlash from One Direction fans as pro-Brexit clip reemerges amid Louis Tomlinson romance
Former Love Island star Zara McDermott is facing backlash after her controversial comments about immigration have resurfaced among One Direction fans.
McDermott recently called time on her relationship with Sam Thompson and was seen enjoying a date with singer Louis Tomlinson.
The pair were seen giggling and holding hands during their Suffolk date, where they dined on £100 fish and chips plus cocktails.
“They looked every bit the happy couple,” one onlooker told The Mirror.
However, One Direction fans have been left less than impressed with their budding romance and unearthed a 2018 BBC debate video – Brexit Blind Dates – featuring McDermott discussing Brexit and immigration.
The footage, which appeared on a One Direction fan Reddit thread, shows a McDermott speaking with Magid Magid, the former mayor of Sheffield.
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In the video, she introduced herself as a former civil servant who had recently appeared on Love Island season four.
She described herself as pro-Brexit in the video, stating: “For me it’s less about immigration and more about the fact that people can’t keep, almost, coming and taking advantage of things like the NHS and the health system and then leaving because it’s unfair.”
McDermott also commented on benefits, suggesting: “There are definitely people on benefits that don’t need to be on benefits but I think that a really good thing to introduce in the UK would be a couponing system.”
Her remarks, which some viewed as dismissive of immigrants’ contributions to the UK healthcare system, quickly drew criticism.
One Directioners on Reddit questioned the couple’s reported “shared values” given Zara’s past comments.
“Louis, if you’re gonna stunt…maybe do it with someone who actually aligns with your values,” the fan wrote.
Someone else criticised: “The fact she was a civil servant is so worrying, considering how misinformed she is.”
“Wonder if King Louis knows about how misinformed this woman is…” another expressed before a fourth pleaded: “Louis no… don’t do it! You can do better! After watching this I’m worried for him.”
Some sceptical followers suggested the relationship might be a publicity stunt leaving another to ponder: “Louis just announced he was working on a new album and Zara has mentioned that she wants to get in the music industry.” (sic)
The former Love Island star is reportedly “so happy” in her blossoming new romance with One Direction’s Louis Tomlinson.
A source told the Mail that the pop star has “put a smile back on her face” after a tough breakup.
“Zara is so happy, it’s early days with her and Louis but everything is going well between them,” a friend told the publication.
The source added: “News of their romance leaked sooner than they intended – the plan was to keep things private for as long as possible.”