Sam’s ex 'understands' Home and Away backlash

Since it was announced last week that she would be joining the cast of iconic Aussie soap Home and Away, Sam Frost has copped some serious backlash.

And her ex-boyfriend Paul O’Brien, who played Jack Holden on the show from 2005-2009, says he understands why people are angry about the former Bachelorette’s casting. See his thoughts in the video above.

Speaking to Larry Emdur and Kylie Gillies on The Morning Show, Paul said: “There are so many actors who are struggling just to get an agent, just to get noticed, so I can see the frustration.

“But you know what… being a critic does not help you, especially if you are comparing yourself to people,” he pointed out. “It just does not work.”

The 39-year-old dated Sam back in 2011, before she shot to fame as a contestant on The Bachelor and then as Australia’s first Bachelorette.

TMS hosts Larry and Kylie went on to quiz Paul on what tips he would give to newly-minted soap star Sam, 28.

“I think she is doing fine, she has a way of working things in her favour,” he replied.

“I think speaking to myself…the fame element can be really full on so stay close to your friends and stay grounded.”

Sam herself spoke out about the backlash on Sunrise earlier this week.

RELATED: Exclusive: Tegan Martin's tips for new Home and Away star Sam
GALLERY: Inside Sam Frost's $1.2million townhouse

“Hopefully I can perform well but I think some people are so stubborn in their opinions, I’m worried that regardless of how well I perform they’re still going to criticise me,” she told the show’s hosts David Koch and Natalie Barr.

“But I’ve got enough support - so many supporters - so I’ve got to channel that and focus on that instead.”

Want morecelebrity, entertainment and lifestyle news? Follow Be on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Tumblr and Instagram