Celebrity Big Brother’s return to ITV has been met with considerable controversy, prompting a wave of complaints to media regulator Ofcom. The majority of these concerns center around the actions and remarks of housemate Mickey Rourke during the show’s premiere week.
Rourke’s entrance on launch night immediately sparked unease among viewers after what many described as inappropriate behavior directed toward co-host AJ Odudu. He reportedly fixed his gaze on her, physically touched her by twirling her around, and continued to stare at her body until she had to directly ask him to stop.
As presenters Will Best and Odudu attempted to guide Rourke into the house, he resisted, stating a desire to “stay with” Odudu before being physically assisted inside by Best. Odudu later addressed the situation with humor on Big Brother’s spin-off show, *Late & Live*, quipping about his attention. Guest Alan Carr playfully remarked on Rourke’s gaze, suggesting viewers find someone who looks at them that way, even noting his tongue was “hanging out.”
“It literally was,” Odudu responded with a laugh. “I was like, ‘You can’t afford these feathers, Mickey, no!’”
Despite her attempts to downplay the incident, the studio audience reacted negatively, and numerous viewers subsequently filed complaints with Ofcom. The latest report from Ofcom confirmed 89 complaints were received for the debut episode, overwhelmingly attributed to Rourke’s conduct towards Odudu. A representative stated: “The majority of complaints related to Mickey Rourke’s behavior toward AJ Odudu.”
Social media reflected this sentiment, with users predicting the influx of complaints and expressing outrage. One user wrote on X (formerly Twitter), “Well… Mickey’s just landed himself some Ofcom complaints.” Others demanded action, calling for his removal from the house due to “disgusting pervert” behavior or inappropriate touching.
“@Ofcom @bbuk Mickey Rourke should be removed,” one user stated.
Rourke’s controversial behavior has continued throughout the week, dividing fans and generating further discussion. He upset JoJo Siwa with homophobic comments including suggesting he would vote out a lesbian first, and used a derogatory term. He also reportedly made remarks perceived as “weight-shaming” towards Donna Preston while she was wearing a face mask, stating, “You are what you eat.” Furthermore, he unknowingly offended Patsy Palmer after criticizing the food prepared for the housemates, unaware that she had been cooking it.
“He later left Donna Preston stunned when he ‘weight-shamed’ her whilst she was wearing her LED face mask – telling the comedian “you are what you eat.”
Adding to the controversy, Rourke violated a key rule of the Big Brother house by refusing to participate in nominating fellow contestants, citing his desire to avoid upsetting anyone.
