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Mickey Rourke’s Swift Exit from Celebrity Big Brother UK Amid “Unacceptable Behavior” Allegations
Oscar-nominated actor Mickey Rourke’s time on “Celebrity Big Brother UK” was cut short as he exited the program mere days after its commencement due to accusations of “unacceptable” conduct directed towards his fellow housemates. This abrupt departure from the popular reality TV show has quickly become a major talking point.
Controversy Erupts Over Rourke’s Interactions
Rourke, best known for portraying Randy “The Ram” Robinson in “The Wrestler,” faced significant backlash during his brief appearance on the British reality television show. The criticisms stemmed from comments made to social media influencer JoJo Siwa and a heated exchange with “Love Island” personality Chris Hughes.
According to an official statement released by ITV’s “Celebrity Big Brother,” “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 behavior.”
Inappropriate Questions and Remarks Spark Initial Outcry
The 72-year-old performer initially ignited controversy within the house when he approached Siwa, 21, and inquired about her sexual preference, asking if she “likes girls or boys.”
Siwa, who has publicly discussed her sexuality, responded that she prefers girls. Rourke, the “Angel Heart” star, then reportedly made a shocking retort.
Rourke’s Comments to JoJo Siwa
“If I stay longer than four days, you won’t be gay anymore,” Rourke allegedly told Siwa.
Unfazed, Siwa quipped back, “I can guarantee I will still be gay and I will still be in a very happy relationship.”
Rourke further escalated the exchange by replying, “I’ll tie you up,” and then stating his intention to “vote the lesbian out real quick.”
Chris Hughes Defends Siwa, Rourke Receives Warning
Fellow housemate Chris Hughes intervened in defense of the “Karma” singer, telling Rourke, “You can’t say that.”
The “Sin City” actor subsequently received a formal warning from show producers regarding his behavior and reportedly apologized to Siwa, a former child star.
“I want to apologize,” Rourke stated. “I’ve got a habit of having a short fuse. And I don’t mean nothing by it. I do mean it [sorry]. If I didn’t, I wouldn’t say it to you.”
Escalating Tensions and Departure
Reports indicate that tensions between Rourke and Hughes reportedly escalated further on Saturday, leading up to the actor’s removal from the program.
Notably, there were no confirmed reports of any physical altercations during these incidents.
Representatives for Rourke, Siwa, and Hughes have been contacted for comment, but have yet to respond.
Jessalynn Siwa Expresses Disappointment
Jessalynn Siwa, JoJo’s mother, voiced her dismay regarding her daughter’s treatment on Instagram on Friday, prior to Rourke’s departure from the show.
“Honestly, I’m surprised he didn’t go home,” Siwa’s mother commented, expressing her disbelief at the situation.
The “Dance Moms” star further stated she was “really sad” that her daughter traveled to a foreign country “to do a TV show, and she got treated like that right away, right out of the gate. I think she handled it great. I think that everyone’s told me that ‘she handled it so well.’ Doesn’t make it okay; doesn’t make it right. I’m just lucky she can handle herself.”
Broader Concerns Raised
The reality television personality suggested that criticizing her daughter for her singing, dancing, and sexuality has “become a culture.”
“Tell her you’ll make her not a lesbian,” Siwa’s mom reiterated Rourke’s comments. “What next? I just take it for face value.”
Bella Thorne Accuses Rourke of On-Set Misconduct
Adding another layer to the controversy, former Disney Channel actress Bella Thorne publicly spoke out against Rourke on Friday, accusing the actor of causing her physical harm during a past film shoot.
While Thorne didn’t specify the film by name, the two actors collaborated on the 2020 movie “Girl.”
“This f–king dude. GROSS. I had to work with this man – In a scene where I’m on my knees with my hands zip-tied around my back,” Thorne recounted, detailing the alleged incident. “He’s supposed to take a metal grinder to my knee cap and instead he used it on my genitals thru my jeans.”