Love Is Blind Season 5 Contestant Files Lawsuit Alleging Coercion into Relationship with Allegedly Abusive Fiancé

Love Is Blind faces another legal challenge as Renee Poche, a season 5 participant, files a lawsuit against Netflix and Delirium TV. Poche claims "unlawful employment practices," "unfair competition," and "intentional infliction of emotional distress."

 

In her complaint obtained by PEOPLE, Poche contends that Netflix and Delirium TV paired her with ex-fiancé Carter Wall, described as a "walking red flag." Despite expressing concerns about Wall's "erratic and alarming behavior," Poche asserts that she was "forced" into participating and proceeding with the engagement.

 

After sharing her traumatic experience, Netflix and Delirium TV accuse Poche of violating her NDA, seeking $4 million. Poche challenges the NDA's legality, filing the lawsuit to clear herself from "all forms of liability."

 

Poche states, "My Love is Blind experience was traumatic; I felt like a prisoner." She highlights the lack of support when expressing safety concerns, prompting her to share the truth about what castmates endured.

 

Netflix and Delirium TV have not responded to requests for comment, and Wall's response is pending.

 

Love Is Blind creator Chris Coelen, addressing safety concerns, emphasizes participants' freedom to leave. Coelen asserts that participants' decisions are their own, and production doesn't interfere with relationships.

 

In her complaint, Poche, a veterinarian from Austin, Texas, claims she believed participants were selected based on compatibility and underwent background checks. However, she discovered Wall's deception during the pod phase, revealing he was unemployed, homeless, violent, estranged from family, and battling addiction.

 

Wall's alleged misconduct includes berating Poche, theft, solicitation of drugs, and emotional abuse on and off camera. Poche claims production was aware of Wall's instability, with a camera operator quitting due to physical threats.

 

Despite Poche's fears and complaints, she alleges being "forced to spend long stretches of time alone with him," facing legal consequences if she withdrew from the program or refused engagement.

 

Post-filming, Poche ended the relationship, only to discover their story wouldn't air. After sharing her distressing experience, Delirium initiated arbitration for NDA violation, seeking $4 million despite Poche's $8,000 earnings.

 

Poche challenges the NDA's enforceability, seeking court relief from all liability.

 

In this unfolding legal saga, Love Is Blind's reputation faces scrutiny as participants like Poche shed light on alleged coercive practices, raising questions about the show's behind-the-scenes dynamics and participant well-being.