Big Brother producers reprimand contestant for homophobic slur

Big Brother producers have reprimanded a contestant on the show for using a homophobic slur during a live broadcast.

Kerry, a 40-year-old NHS worker from Essex, used the slur in an expletive-laden rant on Sunday night after her mattress was stolen by two other contestants as part of a prank.

Olivia and Jenkin, the two contestants behind the prank, continued teasing Kerry – to which she replied “well this is gay”.

The outburst was not featured in the main show but in a Late & Live show aired immediately after.

A spokesperson for Big Brother said: “Kerry was brought to the diary room to discuss her inappropriate use of language.

“Big Brother reminded Kerry of her respect and inclusion training prior to entering the house and the consequences of any further use of offensive language.

“Kerry understood and apologised for any offence caused.”

The housemates have been nominating each other for eviction and what they say to Big Brother will be shown on TV tonight.

The makers of the show have already revealed that some appear to reference Kerry’s behaviour.

Matty, a 24-year-old doctor, says: “It just makes me cringe when someone throws a tantrum who’s an adult.”

Read more: Big Brother is back – but can it be ethical and entertaining?

Big Brother is aired six nights a week on ITV2 as part of the most recent revival of the show, which first premiered in 2000 on Channel 4.

After the station ended the show in 2010, Channel 5 acquired the rights and relaunched it in 2011.

Channel 5 announced the series would end in 2018.