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Jessalyn Siwa Addresses Mickey Rourke’s Homophobic Remark Targeting Daughter JoJo Siwa on ‘Celebrity Big Brother UK’
Jessalyn Siwa, mother of entertainer JoJo Siwa, has publicly responded to actor Mickey Rourke’s use of a homophobic slur aimed at her daughter on ‘Celebrity Big Brother UK.’ The reality television personality addressed the incident following Rourke’s controversial comments during the series.
Jessalyn Siwa Responds to Mickey Rourke’s Slur
In a video shared on Instagram on Friday, April 11, Jessalyn Siwa, 50, expressed her reaction, stating, “I’m not surprised, honestly.” She further commented on the situation, “I knew he wouldn’t be evicted. I’m truly saddened that I sent my child to participate in a television program in a foreign country, only for her to be subjected to such treatment immediately, right from the beginning.”
Details of Rourke’s Comments
During an early episode of the current season of ‘Celebrity Big Brother UK’, 72-year-old Mickey Rourke reportedly told 21-year-old JoJo Siwa that she “won’t be gay anymore” if she remained in the house for more than four days. This comment preceded Rourke’s subsequent use of a homophobic slur.
JoJo Siwa’s Reaction
JoJo Siwa, known for her role on ‘Dance Moms’, directly responded to Rourke’s initial remark, stating, “I can guarantee I’ll still be gay, and I’ll still be in a very happy relationship with Kath Ebbs.”
Rourke’s Representative Responds
Later, reports emerged of Rourke using a homophobic slur while in conversation with fellow housemate Chris Hughes, a former participant in ‘Love Island UK’. Rourke allegedly denied the slur was directed at Siwa. Kimberly Hines, Rourke’s representative, issued a statement, asserting, “Mickey speaks from his heart and means well. He is old school, direct, and honest. I have worked closely with him for nine years, and he is 100 percent authentically himself. There will never be another Mickey Rourke. Period.”
Jessalyn Siwa’s Continued Support
Jessalyn Siwa expressed pride in her daughter’s handling of the situation. “I think she handled it great. Everyone has told me she’s handled herself so well,” Jessalyn elaborated. “It doesn’t make it acceptable or right, but I am fortunate that she is capable of handling herself and that she is okay.”
Jessalyn Siwa also mentioned that she has been monitoring JoJo’s participation in ‘Big Brother’ via the live feeds throughout the season.
Jessalyn further commented on JoJo’s overall demeanor on the show: “I’ve been watching her in other scenes, and I think she looks great. She seems to be doing what she always does.” Jessalyn also addressed the negativity JoJo sometimes faces, stating, “It’s become a culture, a game, a trend to dislike, hate, and make fun of her. Now, to suggest you can make her ‘not a lesbian’? Why not just accept her for who she is?”
Kath Ebbs Shows Support for JoJo Siwa
Kath Ebbs, 27, shared Jessalyn’s statement on their Instagram Stories, offering further support for JoJo Siwa. Ebbs, who identifies as nonbinary, wrote in their repost, “Jo is one of the kindest, most generous people I have ever met, let alone had the privilege to call my partner. We all witnessed misogyny play out on national TV these last two days. The outpouring of support for her has been immediate and deserved.”