Mickey Rourke faces backlash for inappropriate behavior on Celebrity Big Brother

In the United Kingdom, the reality TV series Celebrity Big Brother made its highly anticipated return on April 7, 2025. Among the confirmed contestants were Hollywood actor Mickey Rourke, EastEnders star Patsy Palmer, and former Conservative MP Sir Michael Fabricant. The show's first live episode introduced a mixture of celebrities, including Olympic athlete Daley Thompson and pop star JoJo Siwa, generating significant attention from fans and critics alike. Mickey Rourke's presence particularly stirred controversy due to his past behaviors and the provocative nature of his participation. During his entrance into the Big Brother house, Rourke displayed uncomfortable behavior towards show host AJ Odudu. Viewers were disturbed as he allegedly grabbed and oggled Odudu while making suggestive comments. Upon greeting his co-host, Will Best, he pulled Odudu close before subsequently commenting on wanting to stay with her. The awkward tension led Odudu to remind him to stop looking at her, which reflected a level of discomfort that many found unsuitable for live television. The incident sparked a wave of criticism on social media, with many users expressing concern over the nature of Rourke's actions and calling for increased protection for Odudu. Additionally, comments from fellow participant Alan Carr on the show's aftershow highlighted the perceived inappropriateness of Rourke's behavior, emphasizing the discomfort it caused not just in the studio but also among the viewing audience. The situation has reignited discussions about consent and appropriate conduct in reality television, particularly involving women in the industry. Calls for a safer environment for female hosts and contestants have been made in light of the incident, echoing broader concerns regarding the treatment of women in various media platforms. Celebrity Big Brother's return marks a continued interest in reality television within the UK, with the controversial nature of the show often propelled by the personalities involved. While many viewers are drawn to the drama and entertainment, incidents like Rourke's problematic behavior highlight a contrasting reality where personal boundaries may be crossed, resulting in public outrage and calls for accountability.