Love Island’s Austin Shepard Breaks Silence on Relapse and Rehab
Published March 9, 2026 12:23 PM PDT
“Love Island” star Austin Shepard has always been candid about his struggles with addiction, but his latest revelation has shocked fans. In a recent interview on TMZ’s “Previously On…” podcast, Austin opened up about his battle with addiction and the toll it has taken on his life.
Reflecting on the loss of friends to addiction, Austin admitted that he was on a dangerous path and didn’t want to meet the same fate. He acknowledged the stark reality that addiction can lead to either death or a lifetime of misery, prompting him to seek help before it was too late.
While filming ‘Beyond the Villa’ in L.A., Austin reached a breaking point with his opioid addiction. Despite trying to hide his relapse from production, he couldn’t escape the downward spiral his addiction had taken him on. It wasn’t until he had a seizure on his first night at a detox center that he realized the severity of his situation.
Now, 11 days into sobriety, Austin is on the road to recovery. He credits his dad for being a pillar of support during this challenging time and plans to give back by starting a scholarship for those in need. With a newfound sense of purpose, Austin is determined to stay sober and make a positive impact on others struggling with addiction.
As he continues on his journey to sobriety, Austin is grateful for the unwavering support of his family, “Love Island” cast mates, and his new girlfriend. Watch the full video to see how Austin’s recovery is progressing and how his loved ones are helping him stay on track.
