Big Brother contestant speaks out on 'crossing the line' with comments as he's removed with immediate effect

Former Big Brother contestant George Gilbert has spoken out after getting kicked off the show.

ITV said in a statement to LADbible that he received warnings earlier in the series after mocking LGBTQ+ rights activist Sam Ashby.

A tearful Ashby told Big Brother that George's impression was 'rude' and that it felt like he was 'back at school'.

When George was summoned to the Diary Room, Big Brother told him: "During a game of truth or dare, when asked about your least favourite qualities of other housemates, you said the following, ‘Sam, um too…,’ you then went on to mimic Sam using both noises that mocked the way Sam talks and body language that included limp wrists.

"Do you understand how both your language and behaviour could be offensive to Sam, your housemates and the viewing public?"

Big Brother contestant George Gilbert has been axed from the show (ITV)

George - who was said to be using language that violated broadcast standards - apologised for his behaviour and said he 'didn't want to make anyone feel like that'.

After his release from the show, an ITV spokesperson said: "Following repeated use of unacceptable language and behaviour, George has been removed from the Big Brother House with immediate effect and will no longer participate in the programme."

In a statement, George admitted that he 'went too far' by 'crossing the line too many times'.

He was up for eviction this week after being nominated by over half of his housemates.

"As a flag-bearer of freedom of speech, I never hesitate to discuss and question any topic regardless of how contentious it may be," he said.

George said a number of controversial things on the show, including factually incorrect statements about asylum seekers (ITV)

"Sadly, the boundaries of what is deemed offensive are subjective.

"And I evidently went too far this time by crossing their line one too many times.

"It is a shame that a specific debate could not be had and that it has had to end like this.

"Infamy, infamy, they’ve all got it in for me."

In a longer statement to the Tab, ITV added: "George was previously given several warnings for unacceptable language.

"Most were not broadcast as the language used was contrary to broadcast standards, but one was seen during Monday’s episode of Big Brother.

"Before entering the Big Brother House, the rules regarding language and behaviour are explained to all Housemates and they receive training in respect, dignity and inclusion.

"Friday’s eviction will continue as planned – details of which will be explained during tonight’s episode of Big Brother: Late & Live."