Former Gogglebox star Tom Malone Jr has told fans he has been diagnosed with autism after “always feeling a bit different”.
The 28-year-old, who quit the Channel 4 show last year, explained on Instagram that the diagnosis “made sense” – but was also something he was having to learn about.
He said: “I don’t normally do very personal posts like this, but I thought this one was important.
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“I’ve always felt a bit different, a bit socially awkward and like I just don’t process things in the same way as everybody else.
“Finally I have an explanation.”
He went on: “I’ve recently been diagnosed as autistic.
(Image: birminghammail.co.uk)
“Something that both makes sense to me whilst at the same time is something completely new to learn about and understand more about why I am the way I am.
“Now begins the journey.”
He finished: “This one goes out to all the kids that have ever felt misunderstood due to being a little different.”
Fans were quick to show their support after his honest post, with one sharing a list of famous people who also have autism, including globally successful singer Susan Boyle.
(Image: Instagram/Tom Malone Jr)
His stunning girlfriend Bryony commented: “Proud of you for this and I’m with you all the way.”
One follower said: “So good for sharing your story will help support others.”
Another commented: “Hopefully this diagnosis will help you to understand yourself more. I have three autistic boys and I’ve seen the beauty and brilliance of autism. There will be hard days of course, but just know you aren’t alone and there’s lots of support out there should you feel you need it.”
(Image: Gogglebox/TomMaloneJr)
Tom first shot to fame after joining Gogglebox with his family in the fourth series in 2014.
But he made the decision to leave the show last year, while his dad Tom Sr, mum Julie, brother Shaun and sister Vanessa continued.
Tom Malone Sr sparked concern among fans during the most recent series after he appeared with an arm injury.
(Image: C4)
He told wife Julie: “Got to rest this a bit now Julie. Take it easy. I can’t be doing any housework or heavy lifting, they said that to me. Definitely no housework, rest my arm.”
He continued: “She said: ‘You should take it easy, make sure you get looked after,’ that sort of thing.”
But Julie quickly reminded him he “gets looked after anyway”, with “cups of coffee whenever you want” and “meals brought in on a tray”.
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
