"A reality show bingo" — Selling Sunset fans surprised to see Joey Essex on the Netflix series

Selling Sunset season 8 premiered with all 11 episodes on Friday, September 6, 2024. The Oppenheim Group agents gathered to present some of the most luxurious listings in Los Angeles, California. Since they managed the high-end real estate market, their client list comprised celebrities and reality TV stars.

Reality TV mogul Joey Essex appeared on the eighth season of Selling Sunset as one of Chelsea Lazkani's friends and clients. Viewers might know him from his recent participation in season 11 of Love Island UK as the franchise's first-ever celebrity contestant. He was popular for his controversial comments and relationship with ex-partner Grace Jackson.

Joey previously starred in series including Celebs Go Dating, Celebrity Masterchef, Strictly Come Dancing, Dancing On Ice, Celebrity SAS: Who Dares Wins, and I'm A Celebrity.

With multiple shows already under his belt, Selling Sunset fans were surprised by his guest appearance on the real estate series. They took to X to express their thoughts on his role.

"I’m sorry, did I just see Joey Essex on #SellingSunset? Is he doing a reality show bingo?" a fan wrote.

"Didn’t expect to see @JoeyEssex_ on #SellingSunset," another fan commented.

"At this point I’m convinced Joey Essex sold his soul to the devil to become famous and the catch is that he has to appear on every reality show that’s ever existed," a netizen tweeted.

Many Selling Sunset fans questioned his decision to appear on another reality TV show.

"Omg @JoeyEssex_on #SellingSunset he really trying to tick all the reality shows right?" a user reacted.

"First love island and now selling sunset… is there any show that isn’t being infected by Joey Essex???" one person commented.

"Joey Essex adding #SellingSunset to his Reality TV CV was not on my 2024 bingo card, but at this point are we even shocked?" a fan wrote.

Some Selling Sunset fans criticized the star's cameo appearance on the real estate show.

"Joey Essex cameo on selling sunset as if we haven’t already been tortured enough this summer !!" another person tweeted.

"Not me minding my own business watching #SellingSunset when all of a sudden, who pops up in there? Joey f**king Essex. I thought I escaped him when #LoveIslandUK was done," a netizen commented.

"Joey Essex is such a reality tv wh**e. What on earth is he doing on selling sunset???" a user wrote.

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Selling Sunset star Chelsea introduced Joey Essex to the agents as her friend

Joey Essex first appeared in episode 4, where he was seen talking to his friend. The Oppenheim agents saw the two men standing across the street and complimented their appearance. While they wondered who they were, Chelsea brought them to the table and introduced them as her friends from the UK.

Joey reappeared in episode 9, titled 'Two Listings and a Funeral' to look at a property. While speaking to a listing agent, Chelsea mentioned everything Joey wanted from his new house.

"He's a single lad, and he wants to impress the ladies," Chelsea said.

Joey was instantly attracted to the house in Hollywood Hills. He said it was everything he was looking for. He was excited to use the property as a "bachelor's pad" and a nightclub, where he could host parties. Steering Joey's attention to the wide balcony, Chelsea noted he could see the Griffith Observatory and enjoy the Hollywood Hills' night view with his partner while cooking in a kitchen that has never been used.

"You're really trying to sell me this, ain't ya? It's working. It's working," Joey said.

Although Chelsea wished to sell the house, which was listed at $5.2 million, she wanted Joey to explore a few more options before finalizing anything. Later, when they were joined by Emma, Joey took the opportunity to flirt with the cast member.

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Selling Sunset season 8 is available to stream only on Netflix.