Levi Banks Reveals Why He Backed Out of 'Big Brother' at the Last Minute

What makes a person walk away from a life-changing reality TV opportunity just before the cameras start rolling? Levi Banks has the answer.

The would-be Big Brother contestant announced via Instagram that he withdrew from Season 28 just before move-in day. In a video posted shortly before the CBS premiere, Banks opened up about the "hardest decision" of his life.

"What is up, Big Brother fans?" he began.

Banks explained that as the move-in date approached, he realized the high-pressure environment of the Big Brother house wasn't the right fit for him personally.

Despite the abrupt exit, Banks emphasized there's no bad blood. "I am back home in North Carolina right now," he shared, adding, "And I am on good terms with CBS, Big Brother, and everyone, and I just wanted to let them know and you all know that I am so, so, so thankful for this opportunity. It has been very life-changing."

He may not be competing, but he's still a fan. Banks says he is "so freakin’ excited" to watch the season unfold from the sidelines. His sign-off, "Let's go Yash!" is seemingly in reference to BB28 competitor Yash Patel, who has been rumored to be his replacement. A CBS spokesperson also confirmed to Entertainment Weekly that Banks chose to leave the show, but did not confirm if Yash was his replacement.

While the reason for his departure is now clear, the identity of his replacement remains an open question for fans. Banks's candid explanation offers a rare glimpse into the intense personal calculus that happens even before a reality star steps into the spotlight.