Mickey Rourke, the iconic Hollywood actor and former boxer, is set to make a splash on the upcoming season of ITV's Celebrity Big Brother, which kicks off tonight, April 7, 2025. However, his participation has sparked concern among friends and fans, who fear that his unpredictable nature could lead to him being "canceled" due to his past scandals and outspoken personality.
Rourke, 72, has a long history of controversies, including a homeless boxing match scandal and regrets over steroid use. His friends worry that his candid demeanor and penchant for dramatic moments might not sit well with the viewing public. One insider remarked, "Mickey is a real character and has a very unique way of going about things. He is outspoken and isn't afraid to say what's on his mind. Some pals worry he will go on CBB and cancel himself and damage his acting career, while others feel it may be the making of him."
Despite the concerns, Rourke's casting is considered one of the biggest in the show's history. He joins a star-studded lineup that includes former Dance Moms star JoJo Siwa, Love Island's Chris Hughes, and RuPaul's Drag Race UK winner Danny Beard. Rourke's participation follows a significant career resurgence, particularly after his acclaimed role in 2008's The Wrestler, which earned him both a Golden Globe and a BAFTA Award.
Rourke's journey in the entertainment industry has not been without its challenges. He has previously opened up about his struggles with addiction and the impact of his boxing career on his health and appearance. In a candid moment, he admitted, "Most of it was to mend the mess of my face because of the boxing, but I went to the wrong guy to put my face back together." This admission came after a series of surgeries to repair injuries sustained in the ring, including a twice-broken nose and a snapped cheekbone.
His decision to join Celebrity Big Brother has raised eyebrows, especially considering the hefty paycheck he reportedly accepted—a seven-figure deal that could net him at least $1.3 million for his time on the show. Critics have pointed out that ITV's decision to cast Rourke seems to ignore his controversial past, which includes a history of erratic behavior and public feuds.
One source noted, "It's a huge surprise he’s been paid so much to appear, considering what he was previously accused of. It's not a good look for ITV, who are clearly just quietly ignoring his past." However, others believe that Rourke's presence could lead to memorable television moments. "He is one of a kind and will provide some iconic TV moments, that's for sure," said a friend.
As Rourke prepares to enter the Big Brother house, he has been spotted enjoying his last night of freedom in London, where he dined with friends. Sporting a new look with chin-length mahogany hair, he appeared unrecognizable compared to his earlier days as a leading man in Hollywood. In a recent Instagram post, he shared a snapshot of his night out, captioning it, "In London at the moment with Liam kid Vaughan and his brother Ryan Vaughan. LIVERPOOL strong."
The excitement surrounding Rourke's appearance on Celebrity Big Brother is palpable, but so are the concerns about his potential behavior in the house. Producers are reportedly hoping for a mix of drama and revelation, with one insider stating, "Producers always hope for the train-wreck but being a revelation works as well, if we see a new side of Mickey that could work."
Rourke's past experiences, including his stint on The Masked Singer, where he famously eliminated himself, have led to worries that he might leave the Big Brother house early. "The worst-case scenario would be if he left early. When he did The Masked Singer a few years ago, he eliminated himself," a source explained.
As the show prepares to launch, fans are left wondering how Rourke will fare in the reality TV environment. Will he embrace the opportunity and share his stories, or will his unpredictable nature lead to a swift exit? With a history of both triumph and turmoil, Rourke's journey on Celebrity Big Brother is sure to be one to watch.
The stakes are high not just for Rourke, but also for the producers who are banking on his star power to draw in viewers. ITV has reportedly pulled out all the stops for the launch, even securing comedian Alan Carr for the spin-off show Late and Live, indicating the network's commitment to making this season a memorable one.
As the clock ticks down to the premiere, anticipation builds. Will Rourke's unfiltered honesty and larger-than-life persona resonate with audiences, or will his past come back to haunt him? Only time will tell as Celebrity Big Brother returns tonight at 9 PM on ITV1 and ITVX.
