Drama from this year’s Celebrity Big Brother has already rocked viewers with Mickey Rourke’s behaviour towards AJ Odudu causing a huge backlash. However, there were off-air scenes that weren’t shown, but was dramatic for housemates.
This year’s celebrity quota sees the likes of Coronation Street star Jack P. Shepherd, talk show queen Trisha Goddard and EastEnders legend Patsy Palmer reside in the famous digs. And despite a bumper 90-minute launch night edition on ITV, some drama had to be cut from the final screening.
Shortly before cameras started rolling, a member of the audience took unwell and required urgent medical attention. Moments after the final rehearsal, a woman collapsed beside the stage, with medics and security staff needing to rush to her aid.
She was swiftly removed from location as the titles began to roll and the live moments were aired.
Speaking to the Sun, an onlooker said: “AJ and Will [Best] were both shocked as they weren’t sure what was happening. However, they continued like pros and those watching at home would have had no idea anything was wrong.
“It took about four guards and medical staff to help the woman up and had they not have acted quickly the incident would have been right in shot.”
The revelation comes after fins hit out at Hollywood veteran Mickey. The 72-year-old star had viewers reeling immediately with his “inappropriate” behaviour towards host AJ Odudu.
As he was introduced, the actor appeared to stare at the host and grab onto her. His lengthy entrance saw him trying to give the live audience high-fives, before he was pushed into the house by AJ. However, he attempted to take her in to the property with him.
One user on Twitter/X fumed: “Scared for all the women in that house now with how Mickey was with AJ on live television mind you.” Another predicted: “I put money on Mickey Rourke getting kicked out within the next few days. How he treated AJ was totally unacceptable.”
AJ seemed to be happy downplaying the incident as she appeared on the spin-off show, Late and Live. She was speaking to comedian Alan Carr, who had gasped: “Can we talk about Mickey Rourke looking at you? Wow his eyes.
“Find someone who looks at you the way Mickey looks at you [AJ]. His tongue was hanging out.”
She replied to the comic: “It literally was. I was like ‘You can’t afford these feathers Mickey, no!”
She also posted on Instagram shortly after the scenes, but avoided any mention of Mickey’s behaviour. Despite the star ignoring the incident, fans were on hand to offer her their support in the comments section.
One fan commented: “You look incredible AJ! I’m so sorry Mickey disrespected you like that, you handled it incredibly well, I hope you’re okay!”
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