Former reality television star Sam Wood is facing domestic violence charges after being arrested on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast, with his lawyer confirming he will apply for bail on Thursday.
Wood, 46, was arrested after police received reports of alleged domestic violence at a property in Noosa on Saturday night. He was charged on Sunday with assault occasioning bodily harm and strangulation in a domestic setting.
The Melbourne-based fitness influencer did not appear when the matter was heard at Maroochydore Magistrates Court on Monday. The case was adjourned to Thursday, and Wood is expected to remain in custody until the bail application.
His lawyer, Matthew Cuskelly, said Wood was “simply worried about his family” and confirmed the charges would be defended.
A statement issued by the Wood family on social media said they were “working through this” and co-operating with authorities. It was shared with Wood’s 253,000 Instagram followers and by his wife, Snezana, whom he met on The Bachelor.
“This is a difficult time for all of us,” the statement said. “We are working through this as a family and are thoroughly co-operating with the authorities.”
Sam Wood stood down from fitness business
Wood was stood down indefinitely from the online fitness platform 28 by Sam Wood on Monday, following the charges.
DBG Health, the parent company of the business, said it had “zero tolerance for domestic violence” and that Wood would remain on indefinite leave while the matter was investigated and before the court.
“Our thoughts are with the family and anyone in the community affected by domestic violence,” a spokesperson said.
Mark Watkins, chief operating officer of 28 Group, will lead the fitness and nutrition business in Wood’s absence. He said the company had been “shocked and saddened” by the matters involving Wood.
Wood rose to national prominence after appearing on the third season of The Bachelor in 2015. He later launched the 28 by Sam Wood home fitness business, which he reportedly sold in 2022, while continuing as the face of the online platform.
Queensland Police said officers attended a Hastings Street address at about 9pm on Saturday after receiving reports of alleged domestic violence.
People affected by domestic violence in Australia can contact 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732. Lifeline is available on 13 11 14, while the Men’s Referral Service can be reached on 1300 766 491.
