Big Brother issued a formal warning to housemate Omar during the October 21 episode, following mounting criticism from viewers over his conduct towards fellow contestant Rhianna.
The warning came after a week in which the pair's relationship hit a rocky patch, with Rhianna describing them as like a 'divorced couple'. At one point, Omar approached her, lowered his head, and told her to stop talking about him, before leaving the bedroom and continuing to speak about her to others, including Lynx.
Warning Over Language and Conduct
Called to the Diary Room, Big Brother told Omar: "At times it feels you are dismissive about your housemates' experiences." The show added that his language used "on more than one occasion could cause offence to housemates or the fellow public."
Omar pushed back against the warning, saying: "I fully understand... I've never dismissed housemates feelings in all honesty." He maintained he did not dismiss feelings but rather told the truth, adding: "Let's be honest here we're not talking about housemates, we're talking about me and Rhianna." He insisted he had done "nothing but look out for her and care for her."
Big Brother responded: "You must always be mindful of the impact your language and behaviour can have on others."
Fans and Women's Aid React
Later, speaking to Rhianna, Omar asked: "Have I ever controlled you in any way, or limited you in any way?" She replied: "I am my own person, no-one can control me. I don't feel controlled by you."
Viewers expressed frustration online. One person wrote on X: "Big Brother please boot Omar out, he's not even giving a f*** about Rhianna's feelings." Another said: "This is deeply uncomfortable to watch. Rhianna needs to get far away from Omar as soon as this show's over." A third added: "Omar tryna save himself lol, he's finished."
Women's Aid also issued a statement on Instagram alleging controlling behaviour in the house. The charity wrote: "We're seeing coercive and controlling behaviours being given a platform in popular media like Big Brother. We've been contacted by many viewers who have expressed concern. Not only does Big Brother risk minimising survivors' experiences, it also risks presenting abuse as a form of entertainment."
They added: "Producers should understand their responsibility to keep contestants emotionally and physically safe. The women in these programmes are real people and need real support. We continue to urge television companies such as ITV to engage with experts like Women's Aid to understand the nature of abuse and how they can do better to protect contestants."
Big Brother's Response
In response, Big Brother released a statement confirming 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."
Big Brother continues tomorrow at 9pm on ITV2 and ITVX.
