“Special Forces” Instructor Calls LeSean McCoy’s Exit “Livid”

Jovon “Q” Quarles, an instructor on “Special Forces: World’s Toughest Test,” voiced strong disapproval of former NFL running back LeSean McCoy’s abrupt exit from the show’s fifth season. Quarles stated he was “livid” and felt McCoy had “stolen money” from the production staff.

McCoy voluntarily withdrew from the competition after less than 24 hours, citing discomfort with mosquitoes and the outdoor bathroom facilities. Quarles, a former Navy SEAL, shared his perspective on Page Six’s “Virtual Reali-Tea,” expressing a significant loss of respect for the athlete.

According to Quarles, celebrity recruits on “Special Forces” receive equal pay regardless of how long they remain in the competition. He suggested McCoy’s swift departure indicated he was primarily motivated by the paycheck, rather than a genuine desire to test himself. “For you to come out here for less than 24 hours and quit when nothing happened to you, nothing was wrong with you, everything was good to go and you were so jovial about it? I feel like you stole from us,” Quarles said. “You stole money from us.”

“Special Forces: World’s Toughest Test” simulates the rigorous Special Forces selection process, with former military operatives like Quarles guiding the celebrity participants. Quarles emphasized that the show aims to teach individuals about themselves through challenging physical and mental trials.

“When you come on the show, make some effort, give us something, show us something or don’t come out,” Quarles stated. “We don’t need you. There are other people who want to get out there and challenge themselves.”

Quarles noted that McCoy’s withdrawal was the first time he had witnessed a participant quit so early and without any apparent external pressure. “When someone does something that stupid, or that selfish, I’m like, ‘Oh, get out of here. Done,’” he commented. Quarles also mentioned that he has not spoken to McCoy since filming concluded and is “cool with that.”

“Special Forces: World’s Toughest Test” airs Thursdays at 9 p.m. ET on Fox.