Big Brother’s Omar denies bad behaviour as he gets warning for Rhianna treatment
Big Brother gave Omar a warning (ITV)
Big Brother has issued housemate Omar a formal behaviour warning, after Women’s Aid alleged the show is giving coercive control a platform.
In the 21 October episode, Omar was called to the Diary Room and told his conduct had crossed a line. Big Brother said: “At times it feels you are dismissive about your housemates’ experiences.” It added that Omar’s language used “on more than one occasion could cause offence to housemates or the fellow public.”
Omar disputed the warning, replying: “I fully understand… I’ve never dismissed housemates feelings in all honesty.” He went on to argue he had not dismissed anyone’s feelings, saying he was “telling them the truth”, as he suggested the warning was due to conversations with love interest Rhianna.
What’s going on with Omar and Rhianna?
The warning followed viewer backlash over Omar’s interactions with Rhianna, with the pair shown growing closer during the series.
This week, their relationship appeared to hit rocky ground, with Rhianna describing their dynamic as like a “divorced couple”, before they seemed to break things off.
After the Diary Room conversation, Omar spoke to Rhianna directly and asked: “Have I ever controlled you in any way, or limited you in any way?” Rhianna replied: “I am my own person, no-one can control me. I don’t feel controlled by you.”
Women’s Aid speaks out
Women’s Aid posted an Instagram statement criticising what it said was being shown on the programme. Women’s Aid wrote: “We’re seeing coercive and controlling behaviours being given a platform in popular media like Big Brother.”
Women’s Aid said it had been contacted by many viewers who expressed concern, and urged TV companies such as ITV to engage with experts like Women’s Aid. The scenes also prompted 7,138 Ofcom complaints this week.
Big Brother also released a statement saying all housemates “receive Respect and Inclusion training” and an extensive briefing from the senior team, setting expectations for appropriate behaviour and language.
Big Brother continues tonight at 9pm on ITV2 and ITVX.
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