Sam Wood, former 'The Bachelor' star, denied bail over alleged choking incident

Sam Wood, a 46-year-old wellness influencer and former contestant on the Australian reality dating show "The Bachelor," has been denied bail in a Queensland court. The decision came on Thursday, October 8, 2026, after police presented allegations that Wood choked a woman until she believed she was going to die. This grave accusation formed the basis of the prosecution's argument for Wood to remain in custody indefinitely while awaiting trial.

The court proceedings revealed a concerning history, with police having attended Wood's home in Victoria approximately three years prior in relation to a similar allegation. However, at that earlier time, the woman involved had declined to make a formal complaint. Her reluctance was attributed to a "fear of retribution," suggesting a pattern of intimidation or concern for her safety that predates the current charges.

During the bail hearing, the Queensland police argued that Wood's alleged behaviour was "escalating." This assertion, coupled with the severity of the current allegations and the prior incident, led the court to conclude that Wood posed an "unacceptable risk." Consequently, he will be held in custody, with no bail granted, pending the resolution of his trial. The prosecution emphasized the victim's stated fear for her life during the alleged assault, highlighting the extreme nature of the incident. The prior, unpursued complaint in Victoria further bolstered the police's case for denying bail, indicating a potential for repeated harmful conduct.

Sam Wood gained national recognition as the winner of "The Bachelor Australia" in 2015, where he chose contestant Sarah Mackay. Following his television appearance, Wood has cultivated a public persona as a wellness and fitness entrepreneur, promoting various health-related products and services. This background contrasts sharply with the serious criminal allegations he now faces. The court's decision underscores the gravity of the charges and the prosecution's commitment to ensuring public safety by keeping Wood detained. The case now moves towards a trial, with the legal system set to address the allegations of domestic violence.