The highly anticipated return of Celebrity Big Brother unfolded on Monday evening, welcoming thirteen new celebrity houseguests to its iconic residence.
Among the entrants was veteran actor and former boxer Mickey Rourke, whose arrival immediately generated a wave of concern and awkwardness. Dressed in a striking cowboy-themed ensemble featuring a red leather jacket, the 72-year-old’s behavior quickly became a talking point.
Rourke’s introduction was marked by apparent disorientation. He lingered onstage alongside hosts AJ Odudu and Will Best, prompting Odudu to gently request that he “stop looking at me” after he directed an intense gaze toward her and offered what many perceived as uncomfortable compliments.
Confused about his presence on the show, Rourke reportedly stated, “I had nothing to do with tonight,” when questioned by the presenters. The hosts subsequently needed to guide him across the stage to facilitate his entry into the house, further amplifying viewers’ discomfort.
Reactions online were swift and largely sympathetic, both toward Odudu’s handling of the situation and Rourke himself. Social media comments reflected a range of emotions:
- “AJ dealt with Mickey situation really well!”
- “Omg is it me or does Mickey Rourke have absolutely no idea where he is and what he’s doing?”
- “AJ handled that really well. Well done to her. She didn’t make herself look uncomfortable.”
- “I think we can all agree that was uncomfortable to watch and imagine how she felt. Hats off to her!!!!!!”
Many expressed anxieties about Rourke’s wellbeing, with one comment questioning his suitability for the program given his apparent state of confusion.
The lineup also includes:
- Chesney Hawkes
- JoJo Siwa
- Trisha Goddard
- Chris Hughes
- Patsy Palmer
- Michael Fabricant
- Jack P Shepherd
- Ella Wise
- Daley Thompson
- Donna Preston
- Angellica Bell
- Danny Beard
This new group of VIPs will inhabit the Big Brother house, which has been relocated for this installment. The series promises a fresh take on the classic celebrity experiment, filled with challenging tasks, strategic nominations, and revealing conversations.
“It’s set to be another unmissable season,” the show’s producers state, “viewers can expect tense moments, nail-biting decisions, and plenty of gossip as these famous faces share their experiences under the spotlight.”
Celebrity Big Brother continues tomorrow at 9pm on ITV1, ITVX, STV and STV Player.
