Love is Blind: Leandro Says Abuse Allegation Damaged His Career

In a statement, the physical education professional called his ex-wife’s accusations unfounded.

Leandro Marçal, a participant in Netflix’s “Love is Blind Brazil 4,” spoke for the first time on Friday, the 19th, about the sexual abuse allegation made by his ex-wife, Ingrid Santa Rita. Previously, he had addressed the issue in a written statement, but now he appeared in a video to defend himself.

“I participated in ‘Love is Blind,’ it didn’t end well, it ended with me being accused of some very serious things that are being handled legally. These are unfounded accusations, and I can prove it. I didn’t do any of what this person is saying,” he initially said in a video shared on his Instagram profile.

Leandro explained that he delayed his statement because he was receiving threats. He said he was trying to protect his family and also to develop a plan to defend himself against his ex-wife’s accusation.

“Both my family and I were receiving threats, and I was trying to protect us. That’s why I took a while, to bring a structured plan. This is a serious accusation; I can’t just come here and keep talking. It’s serious and needs to be treated seriously. The legal team helping me is providing clarification to everyone who needs it. I appreciate everyone who sends positive messages. Thank you, everyone. I don’t act impulsively; I’m cautious and quiet, as you could see on the reality show.“

Leandro also mentioned that the controversy has caused him professional damage. “Soon, I will start talking about my professional and personal life, which has been greatly affected by everything that’s happening.”

The issue began last week, on Wednesday, the 10th, when the reunion episode of “Love is Blind Brazil 4” was aired. During the episode, Ingrid Santa Rita claimed she was sexually abused by Leandro Marçal, whom she married during the Netflix reality show.

On Friday, the 11th, the architect made a lengthy outburst on social media, providing more details about the incident. She reported filing a police report describing the alleged assaults. An investigation was opened, and the court granted her a restraining order.

In response to the backlash, Leandro chose to make a written statement. On Sunday, the 14th, he published a text signed by his legal team, denying the accusations and calling the story ‘slanderous.’ He also criticized Netflix for removing him from the episode without giving him the right to respond.

Read also: What happened between Leandro and Ingrid