Controversial Big Brother character Coolio

Ofcom investigating Celebrity Big Brother.

Friday, 16 January 2009

'Celebrity Big Brother' is being investigated by broadcast watchdog Ofcom following complaints from viewers about housemate Coolio.

The US Rapper has proved a controversial character since entering the house, and has been accused of using violent behaviour and language - including the word n****r - as well as reducing housemates to tears and bragging about carrying guns.

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A spokesperson for Ofcom said: "I can confirm we have had complaints about Wednesday's (14.10.09) show over issues concerning Coolio. We will be investigating."

'Celebrity Big Brother' bosses are said to be doing all they can to prevent another race row, following the backlash from the show in 2007 which saw Jade Goody, Danielle Lloyd and Jo O'Meara shamed for their bullying of Indian Bollywood star Shilpa Shetty. The show was pulled from schedules the following year as a result.

Viewers have accused producers of double standards and favouritism toward Coolio because of his star status, citing housemate Alexandra DeGale's removal from the non-celebrity house in 2008 for aggressive behaviour as an example.

Big Brother fan sophieyk2, writing on website forum thisisbigbrother.com, said: "They got rid of Alexandra for the way she spoke to people. She was intimidating and so is Coolio. BB should not be condoning his behaviour. Double standards I think."

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The show's first evictee, glamour model Lucy Pinder also accused producers of editing Coolio's worst behaviour out of the TV show.

She said: "I think the public should know what he is really like. A lot is not being shown. I cannot understand why he hasn't been called in and given a proper warning."

A spokesperson for 'Celebrity Big Brother' says the housemates are monitored at all times and insists none of the contestants have directly complained about Coolio's behaviour.