Brandi Glanville, a star from the US version of The Traitors, has expressed concerns that she may have contracted a sexually transmitted form of ringworm from an ex-boyfriend who worked in the pornography industry. The 53-year-old, who appeared on season 1 of the reality show, has been grappling with health problems for several years, initially linked to a parasite resulting from ruptured breast implants. However, doctors may now have identified the cause of her long-term facial disfigurement.
Ringworm Concerns Revealed on Podcast
Speaking on her podcast Brandi Unfiltered with author and former adult film star Lisa Ann, the Real Housewives of Beverly Hills alum said: 'Have you heard about sexually transmitted ringworm? I feel like I have it… in my throat.' Ringworm is a fungal infection affecting the skin, nails, or hair, but new strains have emerged, including one associated with sexual contact.
Glanville detailed how her ex-partner would finish in her mouth, stating: 'He would only, you know, my face because he didn’t want to get me pregnant.' She added: 'He didn’t know that ship had sailed. I’m like, “OK, whatever, I’m not going to correct you.”' After doctors ruled out common STIs, she conducted her own research. 'My friend told me about it yesterday. I knew nothing about it,' she said, noting that the infection can burrow into the throat and ears.
Health Struggles and Diagnosis
For the past two years, Brandi has documented her search for the cause of swelling on the right side of her face. In 2024, she shared a selfie showing the effects of stress-induced angioedema. Speaking to TMZ in February, she said she 'definitely had a parasite' leading to her disfigurement. Further tests revealed the cause was a rupture of her decades-old breast implants.
She expressed shock, as the implants had appeared fine for nearly 20 years. 'I was like, “Maybe just check that too, why not?”' She advised changing implants every ten years, a lesson she learned the hard way.
The Traitors US Background
The US spin-off of the BBC series saw Cirie Fields win season 1, taking home the $250,000 prize. Brandi competed as a Faithful but was the second person banished due to her loud gameplay. The Traitors US is available on BBC iPlayer.
