Mickey Rourke is taking legal action against Celebrity Big Brother UK following his early exit from the reality show. The actor, who is known for his bold and outspoken personality, claims the show failed to pay him the full fee that had been agreed upon prior to his participation. Rourke’s manager, Kimberly Hines, issued a statement expressing the actor’s dissatisfaction with how the situation was handled.
Hines stated, “There’s no question that when Big Brother booked Mickey Rourke, they were fully aware of both his public persona and how it aligned with his Hollywood rebel image,” noting that the show was expecting Rourke to bring an explosive and attention-grabbing presence, which he did. However, she criticized how the show managed his exit, claiming it was unprofessional and disrespectful. Hines accused the show of using Rourke’s presence for publicity but then exploiting his exit as a marketing tool. She also mentioned that the show had refused to pay Rourke his full agreed-upon fee, and his legal team was now handling the matter.
On the other hand, a Big Brother spokesperson provided a different version of events. According to the show’s representatives, Rourke agreed to leave the show after a conversation about his inappropriate language and unacceptable behavior. They stated that Rourke used threatening and aggressive language, which led to his departure, although no physical confrontation occurred.
The controversy started on April 9, during an episode where Rourke made several inappropriate remarks regarding housemate JoJo Siwa’s sexuality. When Siwa shared that she was attracted to girls and was in a relationship with a non-binary partner, Rourke made an insensitive comment, saying, “If I stay longer than four days, you won’t be gay anymore.” Siwa responded, “I can guarantee I’ll still be gay and I’ll still be in a very happy relationship.” Rourke then made an alarming comment, saying he would tie her up, which caused other housemates to intervene. Additionally, he remarked, “I’m going to vote the lesbian out real quick” and used British slang for a cigarette, while gesturing toward Siwa, further escalating tensions in the house.
This situation has sparked significant controversy, and Rourke’s legal team is now working to address what they view as a breach of respect and contract.
