Big Brother contestant Phillip Regan has confirmed he will not attend tonight's live reunion episode after a death in his family, prompting an outpouring of support from fans.
The 53-year-old, known as the Queen of Scotty Road, took part in the latest series of the ITV2 show, which concluded last night when Rochelle Rackham was crowned the winner.
Instagram Announcement
In a post on Instagram, the Liverpool-born reality star shared a photo with a family member and apologised to fans for his absence.
"I would like to take a moment to personally apologise to everyone for not being able to attend the Big Brother Group Chat or Reunion. Unfortunately, due to a death in my family, we have been dealing with a very difficult and emotional time," he wrote.
"Family comes first and I needed to take a step back from everything to be with my loved ones and deal with this personal loss. I hope you all understand that this was not a decision taken lightly and I am truly sorry."
Support From Fans
He added: "I want to thank everyone who has continued to support me and your kindness has been greatly appreciated. Please respect my family's privacy during this difficult time. Sending love to you all, Queen Of Scotty Road."
Followers offered their condolences in the comments. Tulip wrote: "My condolences, puts life into perspective." Pat said: "So sorry for your loss Philip. We are all thinking of you." Kim added: "Thoughts are with you all." Nicole posted: "Sending love & my deepest condolences." Chrissy commented: "So sorry for your loss, sending love to you and your family at this difficult time." Mark said: "Condolences to you." Shelley added: "So sorry for your loss. Sending all our love & prayer."
Rise to Fame
Regan first gained viral fame in 2021 when a comedy skit of him in his local shop was posted online, featuring his catchphrase: "Times are hard and friends are few - so ta-ra to you."
He told the ECHO in 2021 that the phrase came naturally. "I don't know where it came from as it's just something I've always said. I say 'ta-ra to you' to my mates all the time," he said.
His Queen of Scotty Road name stems from his early days socialising in local pubs. He was also among those who protested the demolition of Skirving Place flats off Great Homer Street in 2007, where he lived with his grandmother, whom he called Mam mam.
"My grandmother was the first person to move in there and she was the last woman to leave," he said. "She brought me up and I looked after my Mam mam until her dying days. Shortly after that, my grandmother's son Valentine was diagnosed with terminal cancer and I looked after him until he passed away."
