Hollywood actor Mickey Rourke is reportedly thinking about taking legal action against ITV after a dispute over his Celebrity Big Brother salary. According to his team, Rourke’s payment was significantly reduced after he was removed early from the show — something his representatives argue was unfair.
Rourke, who was brought in as one of the biggest stars of the 2025 season, was reportedly offered £500,000 to join the show — the highest fee among all contestants. But after being ejected for using inappropriate language and behavior, his full payment was allegedly withheld.
Why Mickey Rourke Was Removed from CBB
The actor’s time in the Celebrity Big Brother house ended after a heated confrontation with fellow housemate Chris Hughes, during which Rourke reportedly showed threatening behavior. He had already faced criticism for making homophobic remarks towards JoJo Siwa, another contestant.
Despite these issues, Rourke’s team believes ITV knew what they were signing up for. His spokesperson, Kimberly Hines, said the network was fully aware of Rourke’s past and personality before the show began.
“Big Brother was fully informed about Mickey Rourke’s background. But instead of handling things professionally, they made a spectacle out of his removal. That’s both disrespectful and damaging,” she said in a statement to People.
Dispute Over Expenses Adds Fuel to the Fire
The legal disagreement doesn’t stop at Rourke’s salary. According to reports, ITV agreed to cover hotel stays up to £230 per night. But Rourke’s team chose a more upscale hotel, racking up a £50,000 bill—which the actor was then expected to pay himself.
A source close to the situation said:
“If a celebrity is removed from the house, they don’t get the full amount. That’s standard. But this is being talked through with Mickey’s team.”
While ITV hasn’t made an official statement, insiders suggest Rourke’s exit was something both sides agreed on, as tensions inside the house were escalating.
Mickey Rourke Still Wants His Full Fee
Rourke’s representatives say he believes he’s still entitled to the full payment, despite his early departure. According to TMZ, the actor feels wronged and is now considering his legal options.
Fans and media outlets alike are watching closely to see if the dispute heads to court or is resolved privately. Either way, the controversy adds yet another twist to this year’s dramatic Celebrity Big Brother season.