A man who appeared on the Jeremy Kyle Show as a teenager has opened up about the anxiety he claims the experience left him with. Kane Manning, now 26, was only 19 when he appeared on the show alongside his brother in April 2017. The episode focused on a DNA test to determine if Kane’s brother was the father of an unborn baby. Kane, who works as a security guard in Brighton, Sussex, alleges that the show’s producers manipulated his words, warning him that Jeremy Kyle didn’t want a ‘boring show.’ He recounts feeling under pressure and vulnerable during the recording, as the audience booed and laughed despite the serious nature of the family’s situation.
Kane’s revelations come following an inquest into the tragic death of Steve Dymond, who took his own life seven days after appearing on the show in May 2019. While the coroner found no direct link between Steve’s appearance on the programme and his death, Kane’s account raises concerns about the treatment of guests on the show. The focus on drama and entertainment, rather than the well-being of participants, is spotlighted by Kane’s experience.
During the episode, Jeremy Kyle interrogated Kane about his doubts regarding the paternity of the unborn child, leading to heightened anxiety and discomfort for Kane. The pressure of the situation, coupled with the show’s atmosphere of audience reactions and Kyle’s demeanor, left a lasting impact on Kane’s mental health. Despite the show confirming his brother as the baby’s father through a DNA test, Kane reflects on the distressing aftermath of the recording.
Post-show, Kane found himself grappling with anxiety, though he expresses gratitude that he and his brother are now on good terms. Reflecting on the show’s cancellation, Kane describes it as a relief, citing the detrimental effects it had on his life. He emphasises the coercive tactics used by producers to elicit dramatic responses from guests, highlighting the show’s disregard for the well-being of those involved.
In response to Kane’s account and the broader implications for participant care on reality TV shows, ITV issued a statement expressing condolences for Steve Dymond’s family and affirming their commitment to enhancing the support and protection provided to show contributors. Kane’s story sheds light on the behind-the-scenes pressures and emotional toll experienced by guests on shows like Jeremy Kyle, prompting a reevaluation of industry practices and participant welfare standards in reality television.