Actor Mickey Rourke was kicked out of the “Celebrity Big Brother UK” house Saturday following his use of “inappropriate language and instances of unacceptable behaviour,” according to British broadcast network ITV.
The 72-year-old’s exit comes about a week into the 24th season and just days after he made comments toward housemate and singer JoJo Siwa that she criticized as homophobic.
On Wednesday’s episode of the ITV show, Rourke inquired about Siwa’s sexuality, asking her if she likes girls or boys. When she responded that she likes girls and has a partner, the 72-year-old inferred that he can change her sexuality.
“If I stay longer than four days, you won’t be gay anymore,” he said.
“I can guarantee I will still be gay and I will still be in a very happy relationship,” Siwa responded.
Rourke continued with his commentary, telling the 21-year-old, “I’ll tie you up.”
Later on while in conversation with other housemates, Rourke said he would “vote the lesbian out real quick,” referring to Siwa.
“That’s homophobic,” said Siwa, who overheard the comment.
Rourke then said, “I need a f–,” while gesturing toward Siwa and adding, “I’m not talking to you,” but rather about a cigarette. Given the context, it is unclear whether his choice of words was intended as a casual remark or carried the connotation of a homophobic slur.
“Love Island” Season 3 star and TV presenter Chris Hughes came to Siwa’s defense, telling Rourke, “You can’t say that.” Hughes also comforted Siwa when she became emotional and started crying over Rourke’s remarks.
Rourke was called into the “diary room,” where he received a formal warning from “Big Brother” for his comments.
“Mickey, Big Brother thinks your language was offensive and unacceptable,” the ominous Big Brother voice said to Rourke. The actor responded that he understood.
Siwa nominated Rourke for the show’s first eviction on Friday. A representative for the singer did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
According to a spokesperson for ITV, Rourke’s language and behavior continued Saturday during a disagreement with Hughes amid a task, which are activities inside the Big Brother house that the housemates must accomplish. While no physical altercation took place, ITV told NBC News that Rourke’s behavior toward Hughes was deemed threatening and aggressive. The network did not disclose specifics about the nature of the disagreement.
“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,” the spokesperson said in a statement Saturday.
A representative for Rourke did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
“Celebrity Big Brother UK” Season 24 began airing Monday and is expected to wrap up on April 25.
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