The Only Way Is Essex star Megan McKenna 'regrets' having sex on Ex on the Beach

Megan McKenna says she wishes she hadn't had sex on MTV reality show Ex on the Beach.

The star made her name appearing on TV shows like Towie and Celebrity Big Brother but has told Newsbeat she regrets some of her earlier antics.

"I wish I hadn't got intimate on TV but he [her partner] was my boyfriend," she says.

The 24-year-old featured on two series of Ex on the Beach - where couples and singles share a luxury villa.

"The show wasn't the route I wanted to go down. It [sex] is normal - I just had a camera on me," she said.

Megan and her then boyfriend Jordan Davies appeared on MTV's Ex on the Beach

Not long after filming stopped, Megan and Jordan separated despite getting engaged in the series finale.

"Growing up, I always wanted to be on TV," said Megan.

"And that show opened so many more doors, so I am really grateful."

Megan McKenna and Pete Wicks film a scene for Towie

As well as racking up the reality TV appearances, Megan has used her money and fame to pursue other interests.

She has a popular cosmetics range and the leap from TV to beauty has seen her compared to Kylie Jenner.

"It's a massive compliment. I am obsessed with the Kardashians. It's on series link at my house," says Megan, who says she wants to turn her business into a "massive empire" like Kylie.

Kylie Jenner attends the 2017 Met Gala

Now a regular cast member on ITV's The Only Way Is Essex (Towie), Megan has also recently ventured into the catering world.

One of the dishes created by Megan McKenna.

"I never ever thought about having my own restaurant. This is like modern British food and the music and design give it an Ibiza feel," says Megan.

"Plus, I don't think there are many places like this. I have a gluten allergy so 90% of the menu is also gluten free."

Megan thinks that letting cameras follow her every step gives people the feeling they can comment on whatever she does.

"I do get down sometimes. Especially filming Towie, it's hard. I have had relationships break up and fall out with mates on screen - it can be horrible.

"I get more love than abuse but I still get abuse. I hate trolls."

Megan performs in Covent Garden Piazza in central London

Megan says she hopes to continue being a Towie cast member for a while yet but her ultimate goal is to become a pop star.

"I love to sing country music and pop music. I want to get in the studio but it's hard when you're doing so much TV," she says.

"I know people will say, 'She's just trying to be a pop star because she's on TV,' but that's not the case.

"I've trained my whole life at theatre school and I am going to prove them wrong when I turn up to a gig and sing live with a guitarist and no backing vocals."

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