Former Strictly Come Dancing choreographer James Jordan has voiced strong disagreement regarding the removal of Hollywood actor Mickey Rourke from the recent series of Celebrity Big Brother, arguing that contemporary society has become excessively cautious.
Jordan posited that “the world has gone soft” following Rourke’s eviction due to what he perceived as inappropriate language used during his time on the ITV reality program. Speaking in an interview with the Daily Record, the 47-year-old former contestant highlighted a significant shift in public attitudes compared to his own experience participating in 2014.
“Everyone’s a lot more sensitive now,” Jordan stated emphatically. “Everyone is trying to be offended by everything. Or they’ve just gone soft.”
Mickey Rourke, aged 72, triggered over 1,000 complaints directed at Ofcom before ultimately being asked to leave the house. Jordan asserted that Rourke’s behavior – which prompted multiple warnings – would have been accepted during Jordan’s own involvement in the show back in 2014.
ITV provided a formal explanation for Rourke’s departure, stating: “Mickey Rourke has agreed to leave the Celebrity Big Brother House this evening following a discussion with Big Brother regarding further use of inappropriate language and instances of unacceptable behaviour.”
Key Developments Surrounding the Controversy:
- Mickey Rourke supporters have expressed outrage at what they perceive as “double standards” exhibited by ITV, specifically referencing a crude remark made by the show’s host shortly after Rourke’s removal.
- A tense exchange between Mickey Rourke and Chris Hughes was previewed ahead of Rourke’s anticipated exit.
- Mickey Rourke’s actions sparked a surge in Ofcom complaints concerning “disgusting” behavior, leading to significant scrutiny of the actor’s conduct on the program.
Jordan drew parallels between Rourke’s situation and his own experiences during his 2014 appearance with actor Gary Busey. He explained, “I had a similar situation during my time on the show in 2014 with Gary Busey,” adding that he attempted to engage Busey in an honest conversation, believing the actor was unaware of the 24/7 filming aspect of the game show.
“If Mickey Rourke was in the house in my first year, he wouldn’t have been evicted,” Jordan declared. He further criticized the current lineup of contestants, suggesting a lack of resilience compared to previous seasons.
“They’re all very sensitive and get easily offended,” Jordan commented. “A lot of them are just trying to be what they think the public wants them to be.”
Jordan identified specific housemates, notably Chris, whom he suspected were employing strategic gameplay, describing him as “smart” and aware of his actions.
Reflecting on his own participation, Jordan acknowledged that producers “cast for controversy” and “wanted drama to happen,” a dynamic which he found beneficial for television viewing. He admitted, “And I loved it.”
Ultimately, Jordan expressed concern about the diminishing impact of Celebrity Big Brother due to heightened sensitivities. “I think everyone is scared to say or do anything that will be taken the wrong way. We’re all scared of offending each other,” he concluded.
