Mickey Rourke made headlines this week after appearing on Celebrity Big Brother UK with a dramatically different look and a behavior that left fans talking. The 72-year-old actor, best known for his roles in The Wrestler and Iron Man 2, joined the show’s new season alongside JoJo Siwa and Daley Thompson.
Rourke introduced himself as “somewhat of an actor” in his pre-show video, where he wore a black outfit with bold cowboy boots and flashy accessories. However, it was not just his outfit or words that had viewers talking but his noticeably altered appearance and strange energy that made him nearly unrecognizable to longtime fans.
Mickey Rourke’s TV appearance caused mixed reactions
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Many viewers commented on social media that they could hardly recognize the actor due to his weird looking face. Some say it is likely due to years of boxing and cosmetic surgery, while others simply showed concern for his health and behavior.
During his introduction by hosts Will Best and AJ Odudu, he spun Odudu around and pulled her into his body unexpectedly. His piercing stare and bizarre remarks left audiences, and Odudu, visibly on edge. That moment on the show quickly became a topic as it went viral across platforms.
Viewers call for action amid backlash
Following the incident, the fans on X and Instagram called out the show in concern for Odudu while demanding accountability. Many said Rourke’s behavior crossed a line and urged Celebrity Big Brother UK producers to reconsider his participation. They called the moment “creepy” and questioned the vetting process for casting.
Rourke’s return to television was intended to bring star power, but it has instead started another debate about consent and appropriate behavior on reality TV. As the show continues, pressure mounts on the network to address the incident. Whether Mickey Rourke remains in the house or is removed may determine how the rest of the season unfolds.