Former Big Brother contestant Trish Balusa has filed a lawsuit against ITV, alleging negligence, breach of contract and misrepresentation over her treatment on and after the show.
Balusa, 36, appeared on the reality franchise's 20th series, finishing in eighth place and leaving the house on day 35. After her eviction, a series of social media posts written a decade earlier were unearthed, prompting intense scrutiny. She issued a swift apology, saying she was 'embarrassed' by the sentiments expressed.
Legal action following Rochelle Rackham's win
Balusa is now seeking legal action after housewife Rochelle Rackham's win last week, believing there to be a double standard in how ITV has responded to allegations of racism.
In a statement to Reality Tea, Balusa said: 'What played out on screen shows exactly how race and identity shape the way a person is treated, received and humanised.' She described feeling 'gaslit' by her experience on the programme and vindicated by recent events.
Allegations of double standards
Following accusations of racism and homophobia, Balusa's invitation to the live final was withdrawn, and she was excluded from any post-eviction appearances. In a subsequent apology, she said: 'I would like to sincerely apologise for the harmful stereotypes I perpetuated and the pain I have caused to the marginalised communities and groups of people mentioned.'
Balusa later said she would have to speak to her young son about the scandal and how she had been complicit in 'perpetuating views that are very hurtful for others.' She also admitted the experience sparked a difficult conversation with her brother, who is transgender.
Previous discrimination allegations
The following year, Balusa alleged that she had experienced discrimination herself, both inside and out of the Big Brother house, and had escalated the complaint to Ofcom. 'I'm seeking legal representation because I deserve justice,' she told Reality Tea at the time.
This year, Big Brother sparked another racism row due to sentiments expressed inside the house and on social media by 57-year-old Rackham. This included an exchange with housemate Johanne Cade, who described the encounter as feeling 'like a microaggression.'
After clashing with Cade earlier in the season, Ofcom received almost 500 complaints from viewers accusing Rackham of racism and bullying. She was also accused of making an offensive comment toward Chinese people which was not aired by ITV.
Metro has contacted ITV for comment on this story.
