Big Brother housemate George Gilbert has addressed his removal from the house, saying he went "too far".
The contestant from the current season was removed due to the "repeated use of unacceptable language and behaviour", as ITV confirmed in a statement.
Now George is breaking his silence about the shocking removal, describing himself as "a flag bearer of freedom of speech" but acknowledging he may have crossed a line.
"As a flag bearer of freedom of speech I never hesitate to discuss and question any topic regardless of how contentious it may be," George said about Big Brother's decision (via The Sun).
"Sadly, the boundaries of what is deemed offensive are subjective and I evidently went too far this time by crossing their line one too many times," he continued.
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"It is a shame that specific debate could not be had and that it has had to end like this. Infamy, infamy, they've all got it in for me."
George's scenes aired in tonight's episode (8 October), but the comments that led to his removal will not be included in the because they are contrary to broadcast standards.
The actor-turned-parish councillor from Essex was one of the contestants up for eviction this week, alongside Elsa Rae, Cameron Barnes and Richard Storry.
Big Brother released a post on social media explaining that the eviction vote would go on as normal and previous votes to save George — as per the show's new voting formula — won't count.
Ahead of tonight's show, ITV released a statement about George's ejection.
"Following repeated use of unacceptable language and behaviour, George has been removed from the Big Brother House with immediate effect and will no longer participate in the programme."
This wasn't the first time George faced consequences for his behaviour in the house. Last week, the 23-year-old had been warned about his use of "unacceptable language and behaviour", which had "caused offence" to his fellow housemate, Sam Ashby.
Big Brother airs on ITV2 and ITVX from Sundays through Fridays, followed each night by Big Brother: Late & Live.
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Reporter, Digital Spy
Stefania is a freelance writer specialising in TV and movies. After graduating from City University, London, she covered LGBTQ+ news and pursued a career in entertainment journalism, with her work appearing in outlets including Little White Lies, The Skinny, Radio Times and Digital Spy.
Her beats are horror films and period dramas, especially if fronted by queer women. She can argue why Scream is the best slasher in four languages (and a half).
