'Temptation Island' star Esonica Veira says she was 'hurt' and 'upset' seeing Gavin suck Payton's toes
Esonica Veira, 30, quickly became one of the fan-favorite contestants on 'Temptation Island', thanks to the way she carries herself with grace and charm. In an exclusive interview with MEA WorldWide (MEAWW), the former beauty queen spills the beans on her experience being a part of the show, her feelings towards Kareem and who she was closest to on the island. Read on to know more.
Can you tell us a bit about yourself?
A former Miss US Virgin Islands and owner of my own makeup brand called Forever Royal Cosmetics. I would describe myself as outgoing, funny and confident. I enjoy relaxing on the beach in the Caribbean, spending time with family and friends, and anything to do with arts and entertainment.
How long have Gavin and you been dating, and what made you guys come on the show?
Gavin and I have been dating for a year-and-a-half. We came to the show to test our relationship. It was originally Gavin’s idea, although I did think it would be a good idea so he could confirm to me that he was the right guy.
How was your experience being a part of the show?
My experience of being a part of the show was a wild one. In the beginning, it was very hard for me to adjust. I found it very difficult to be separated from my partner and to allow anyone to have a conversation with or even to make friends with the girls. So honestly it was a tough journey for me in the beginning. Only at the end was I able to open up and just accept the situation for what it was as much as I could have.
What did you think of Gavin sucking on Payton’ s toes?
A lot of people laughed about that sucking toes situation, but personally I was really upset and was hurt by it. I understand people are just having fun, but for me it was just a weird situation to do to someone that you don't know. I was disappointed.
What did you think of Kareem when you first saw him?
When I first saw Kareem I thought that he was a good-looking guy. He seemed to have a very calm energy and he was also a gentleman.
Fans are rooting for Kareem and you to leave the island together. Do you think that might happen?
It’s very nice to see that fans are supportive of me being happy in whatever decisions I make. Do Kareem and I leave the island together? I don’t know — we just gotta wait and see!
Who were you closest to on the Island?
The closest person I was on the island with would be Ashley G. It did take some time but we connected because she reminded me of a really good friend that I knew already in the past. So I found a lot of similarities there and our personalities gelled well for the most part. We both can be a little over-the-top but we did pretty well together and I think that we had the strongest girl bond.
Are you still in touch with anybody from the show?
Oddly enough I’m in touch with almost everyone from the show. I think we built a very strong friendship and we’re a family now. So even if it’s not every day, we do check on each other to make sure everything is OK and send words of encouragement.
Can you tease us a bit about the show?
So the gag is whatever you think you know about 'Temptation Island' is actually wrong and what you don’t know about 'Temptation Island' you’ll have to find out when the time is right because there are three sides to the story: your side, my side and the truth.
'Temptation Island' airs every Thursday night at 10/9c only on USA Network.