Mickey Rourke risks removal from Big Brother after homophobic comments to JoJo Siwa

Mickey Rourke has been issued a formal warning on Celebrity Big Brother UK 2025 for making "offensive and unacceptable" remarks to fellow housemate JoJo Siwa regarding her sexuality.

The 72-year-old Oscar-nominated actor, known for roles in The Wrestler and 9½ Weeks, allegedly made homophobic comments to the 21-year-old singer and social media personality, prompting intervention from the show's producers.

The incident unfolded after Rourke asked Siwa about her sexual orientation, to which she replied: “Girls. My partner is non-binary.” Rourke responded with, “If I stay longer than four days, you won’t be gay anymore,” and later said, “I’m going to vote the lesbian out real quick.”

A further remark occurred when Rourke used the phrase “I need a fag,” in reference to a cigarette, before gesturing toward Siwa and adding, “I’m not talking to you.” Fellow contestant Chris Hughes called out the language, prompting Rourke to clarify his intended meaning.

Rourke was then summoned to the Big Brother diary room, where producers told him his behavior was unacceptable and warned that further incidents could result in his removal from the show. Rourke issued an apology, saying: “I don’t have dishonourable intentions. I was just talking smack. I do mean it [the apology].”

After rejoining the house, Rourke personally apologized to Siwa, who accepted his apology but emphasized the impact of his words: “It’s not an acceptable word.”

The incident has drawn widespread attention on social media, with viewers debating both the nature of the remarks and the show's handling of the situation.

Celebrity Big Brother airs on ITV, with Season 2025 featuring a diverse cast, including reality stars, actors, and influencers.