Which controversial SAS Australia recruit almost didn’t appear on the show? Shock report reveals celebrity was initially cast as ‘filler’ in case another star dropped out
Firass Dirani is undeniably one of the most talked about recruits of Seven’s grueling new series, SAS Australia.
But it has now been revealed that the Underbelly star was never meant to appear on the military-style show.
According to New Idea, the 36-year-old actor was a ‘filler’ to replace a cast member if they dropped out.
Bombshell! A new report has claimed that Seven’s new military series, SAS Australia, almost went ahead without recruit Firass Dirani
‘Firass was always a filler cast member,’ a television source claimed.
‘If someone dropped out, they had a spare ready. He was trained up like the rest of the cast, but wasn’t guaranteed a spot.’
But it seems when producers realised that Firass provided the ‘magic’ SAS Australia needed, he was instantly cast on the show.
Claims: According to Woman’s Day, the Underbelly star was originally cast as a ‘filler’ if somebody dropped out ahead of filming production
‘When producers realised what Firass would bring, they couldn’t resist adding him,’ the insider told the publication.’
Since appearing on the show, Firass has had several confrontations with the directing staff and contestants.
He has been locked in an escalating feud with SAS co-star and former Bigger Loser trainer, Shannan Ponton, since the series launched.
Entertainment: But after producers realised what Firass would bring to the show, ‘they couldn’t resist adding him’
Several recruits have since pleaded with Firass to stop ‘gobbing off’ at the DS and to start being a team player.
However, many have rushed to Firass’ defense, claiming that while he was frustrating on SAS, they didn’t think he was a ‘bad guy’.
Eden Dally also told Daily Mail Australia last month that ‘not everyone hated Firass’ and that he was ‘tough’.
Controversial: Since appearing on the show, Firass has had several confrontations with the directing staff and contestants