Fans Furious After Mickey Rourke’s Disrespectful Comment to JoJo Siwa!
Mickey Rourke, the 72-year-old Hollywood star, is under fire after making a controversial and offensive comment toward JoJo Siwa during his appearance on the UK reality TV show Celebrity Big Brother. The incident, which unfolded on April 7, has sparked widespread criticism online, leading to a formal warning from the show’s producers.
The Controversial Comment
Rourke, a seasoned actor known for his roles in The Wrestler and 9½ Weeks, entered the Celebrity Big Brother house alongside a group of other celebrities, including 21-year-old social media personality JoJo Siwa. Within just a few days, tensions began to rise between the two, culminating in a homophobic remark from Rourke that upset Siwa and many viewers.
During a conversation in the house, Rourke questioned Siwa about her sexuality. Siwa, who has been openly gay and in a relationship with a non-binary partner, revealed she was interested in women. Rourke then responded with an alarming comment, saying, “If I stay longer than four days, you won’t be gay anymore.”
Siwa, visibly stunned, fired back: “I can guarantee I’ll still be gay and I’ll still be in a very happy relationship.” Rourke’s response was even more troubling: “I’ll tie you up,” which left Siwa visibly upset.
The Fallout
The tension didn’t end there. Later in the episode, Rourke made a second comment that many deemed homophobic. He said he was “going to vote the lesbian out real quick,” referencing Siwa’s sexuality. His use of the word “fag” also sparked outrage when he said, “I need a fag,” pointing at Siwa and adding, “I’m not talking to you.”
Chris Hughes, a fellow contestant and Love Island star, quickly stepped in to warn Rourke about his offensive language. Rourke tried to explain, saying, “I know. I was talking about a cigarette.” However, his attempt to downplay the situation failed to calm tensions. Siwa was clearly distressed by the exchange, and she later sought comfort from Hughes, who embraced her as she teared up.
Big Brother Takes Action
The producers of Celebrity Big Brother did not let Rourke’s behavior go unaddressed. In a preview of the next episode, it was revealed that Rourke had been formally warned by the show for his “offensive and unacceptable” comments. The Big Brother team reminded him that any further inappropriate language or behavior could lead to his removal from the house.
Rourke later apologized in the diary room, downplaying his words as “talking smack.” He said, “I didn’t mean any bad intentions and if I did, sorry.” He also apologized directly to Siwa, expressing regret for his remarks. “I want to apologize. I didn’t say it out of meanness,” he added, admitting that he had a “short fuse” and often spoke without thinking.
Siwa accepted the apology, stating, “I appreciate your apology.” However, the damage had already been done, and many viewers were less than forgiving.
Online Backlash
The incident quickly went viral on social media, with many viewers condemning Rourke’s remarks. One viewer tweeted, “JoJo Siwa being subjected to homophobic bigotry from Mickey Rourke was a hard watch.” Another pointed out the uncomfortable irony of seeing Siwa, at 21, educate Rourke, who is 72, on the harmful nature of the word “f*g.”
Others were disturbed by Rourke’s reference to “tying” Siwa up, calling it inappropriate and even dangerous. One commenter wrote, “Mickey Rourke’s comments towards JoJo Siwa and her sexuality is nothing short of dangerous/disgusting. You can’t justify it and it’s not even remotely funny. Fair play to Chris for calling him up on his behaviour.”
Big Brother’s Response
In light of the incident, a Big Brother spokesperson issued a statement emphasizing that all housemates receive respect and inclusion training before entering the show. The spokesperson also assured the public that inappropriate behavior is addressed immediately and appropriately.
“All housemates are monitored 24 hours a day,” the spokesperson said, “and instances of inappropriate behavior are dealt with appropriately and timely.”
The Impact
While his’s apology may have been accepted by Siwa, the incident highlights an important issue about how language and behavior can affect people in a public setting. The backlash against his reflects a growing intolerance for homophobia and other forms of discrimination, especially in the entertainment industry. For many viewers, the moment served as a stark reminder that even in 2024, harmful stereotypes and slurs still have the power to hurt.
As Celebrity Big Brother continues, viewers will be watching closely to see how his’s actions are handled and whether other contestants will speak out about the incident. For now, it remains to be seen how this controversy will shape his reputation moving forward.
