Celebrity Big Brother fans have expressed their discomfort over comments made by Chris Hughes towards fellow contestant JoJo Siwa, leading many to label his remarks as "creepy" and inappropriate. The former Love Island star, 32, and the 21-year-old Dance Moms sensation have developed a close friendship during their time in the house, but their bond has raised eyebrows among viewers, particularly following a series of questionable comments from Hughes.
During a recent episode aired on April 17, 2025, the housemates participated in a memory game called "I Went to the Market," where each contestant had to remember a list of grocery items. JoJo successfully recalled a long list, which impressed Chris, who then remarked, "That was really good, a big turn on, that." JoJo, who identifies as gay and is currently in a relationship with non-binary partner Kath Ebbs, initially responded with confusion, asking, "What?" Chris repeated his comment, saying her memory skills were indeed a "turn on," which prompted a flurry of reactions on social media.
Viewers took to platforms like X (formerly Twitter) to voice their concerns, with many stating that Chris's comments were inappropriate given JoJo's sexual orientation and current relationship. One user tweeted, "Did Chris just say JoJo remembering the list in the game they’re playing is a big turn on?" Another chimed in, "Ffs man Chris… feel like that just gave JoJo the ick. 'Big turn on that.'" The sentiment was echoed across various posts as fans expressed their discomfort with Chris’s flirtatious remarks.
In addition to the memory game incident, Chris has made other comments that have raised eyebrows. Earlier in the week, he referred to JoJo as his "girlfriend" during a discussion about sharing a Chinese takeaway prize with fellow housemate Jack P Shepherd. JoJo quickly corrected him, stating, "I will have to say no," when Chris suggested they might move in together after leaving the show. Despite her clear boundaries, Chris continued to express his affection for JoJo, stating, "I think we might have to, she'll say no but deep down I know," which only added to viewers' concerns about his behavior.
The growing intimacy between Chris and JoJo has been a focal point of the show, with the two often seen cuddling and whispering to each other in bed. This has led to speculation about their relationship, with some fans suggesting that Chris may have developed feelings for JoJo, despite her being in a committed relationship with Kath. One viewer commented, "Chris is a 32-year-old man constantly making creepy and flirty comments towards a 21-year-old woman, who has made it clear she is a lesbian and in a happy relationship."
Chris's comments weren't just limited to JoJo's memory skills. During a playful moment, he slapped JoJo's stomach after she lifted her jumper, calling it "a lovely bit of porridge" and jokingly asking her to guard the changing room door while he used a cat litter tray as a toilet during a task. This bizarre behavior further fueled the perception of Chris as being inappropriate in his interactions with JoJo.
Despite the backlash, Chris has maintained that JoJo is his "person" in the house, stating, "If she left the house ever and I'd be stuck in here, that would genuinely crush me." This statement came after he defended JoJo against former housemate Mickey Rourke, who was removed from the show for making homophobic comments. Chris's support for JoJo initially endeared him to fans, but his recent actions have led many to question his intentions.
As the show progresses, the dynamics between Chris, JoJo, and Kath are becoming increasingly complicated. Kath, who has been supportive of JoJo throughout her time on Celebrity Big Brother, has not publicly addressed the growing closeness between her partner and Chris. However, she has previously spoken out against the homophobic remarks made by Rourke, describing JoJo as "the love of her life" while also facing backlash from fans over the situation.
With the ongoing drama and the impending live eviction scheduled for April 18, 2025, viewers are left wondering how these relationships will evolve. The show continues to air nightly on ITV1, and the interactions between Chris and JoJo are sure to remain a hot topic among fans.
Celebrity Big Brother fans are left to ponder whether Chris's behavior is simply a misguided attempt at humor or if there are deeper feelings at play. As the show unfolds, it remains to be seen how JoJo will navigate her friendship with Chris while maintaining her relationship with Kath.