ITV addresses backlash over Big Brother Omar's behaviour as viewers say they're 'complaining' over 'uncomfortable' episode
ITV has now addressed the backlash over the behaviour of Omar in this year's Big Brother series.
Couple Omar and Rhianna dramatically split last night after tensions between the pair reached a boiling point.
The drama erupted when Rhianna told Omar that she felt they would be better off as friends, sparking multiple conversations in the house about his conduct towards her.
In scenes aired in the episode, Rhianna was spoken to by fellow housemates Twinks and Catrin who raised concerns - but by the end of Monday's episode, the pair were cuddling in bed.
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Viewers were left outraged by certain comments made to Rhianna by Omar throughout the episode and his conduct towards her, including one where he told her 'not to cry'.
He also was heard saying "don't look away from me", "sort yourself out" and "fix up" in a conversation in the store room, moments after leaning over her in the bedroom and sternly telling her not to 'speak about him' to others.
Former housemates have also since hit out at the aired scenes, as Millie Jarrett, who was the first booted out of the series, said on TikTok live: “Omar needs to get kicked out. He needs to go. I know so many people are making complaints about him.”
Chelsey Ammari meanwhile, who was Rhianna's closest confidant in the house, shared her own TikTok calling it an 'uncomfortable watch'.
Viewers of the show flooded social media after Monday's episode, as Big Brother was quickly trending on X. Many called for ITV to take action and that they had made Ofcom complaints.
"Omar's behaviour is alarming," one user posted. "I've never complained to Ofcom, however I feel it only right, even as a mark of protest against that behaviour."
Another posted: "First time i’ve ever done an Ofcom complaint was about Omar." A third added: "Never complained to ofcom before in my life but Omar NEEDS to go."
Other users waded in, as one said: "Just complained to Ofcom for this episode... Big brother, get Omar out now."
ITV respond to backlash
In a statement issued, ITV have said that housemates are told about their expectations regarding behaviour and language and that their welfare is protected at all times.
A spokesperson said: “All Housemates receive Respect and Inclusion training and an extensive briefing from the Big Brother Senior team to prepare them for living in the House and to set out Big Brother’s expectations for appropriate behaviour and language.
“Housemates are monitored 24 hours a day and any instances of inappropriate behaviour are responded to appropriately.
“Welfare and safeguarding are prioritised throughout the production, with a dedicated welfare team available to support Housemates before, during and after their time in the House.”
Charity Women's Aid meanwhile has echoed calls for ensuring safeguarding measures are followed, writing on social media: "It’s the responsibility of TV and production companies to make sure those taking part are kept safe and that the content they’re showing to their audiences is considered with care."
Veronica Oakeshott, Women’s Aid Head of External Affairs added: "It’s worrying to see behaviours like this being given a platform in popular media like Big Brother. We’ve been contacted by many viewers who have expressed concern."
ITV have been approached for further comment by LADbible.
Topics: Big Brother, ITV, TV, UK News
James Holt