'Big Brother' UK’s George Issued Formal Warning After ‘Unacceptable’ Queer Impression of Housemate

Big Brother UK has formally reprimanded contestant George Gilbert following a widely criticized incident in which he performed a stereotypical impression of his queer housemate, Sam Ashby, during a Truth or Dare game in the house. The episode, which aired on Monday, October 6, 2025, has reignited discussions around LGBTQ+ representation, respect, and accountability in mainstream entertainment .

During a game of Truth or Dare on Sunday, October 5, George was asked to share each housemate’s worst quality. When addressing Sam, George mimicked Sam’s voice and adopted limp wrists—a gesture widely recognized as a derogatory stereotype of queer men. Some housemates laughed at the portrayal, while others expressed discomfort. Caroline, another contestant, attempted to redirect the moment, telling George to “just say too camp” rather than continue the impression .

The next day, Sam appeared visibly upset in the Diary Room, where he described feeling “rude” and likened the experience to being bullied at school. “It was him doing it, mocking me as if I have some form of disability or something, which is just rude anyway, and then all the boys kind of laughing. It just felt like I was back in school. It brought all that back in that moment,” Sam reflected .

Sam later confronted George directly about the incident. George expressed remorse, explaining, “I didn’t know it would make people laugh. The last thing I’d want to do is make someone feel sh*t about themselves.” He apologized and complimented Sam’s energy in the house .

Big Brother producers responded swiftly, summoning George to the Diary Room for a private conversation about his conduct. The show’s titular voice reiterated that rules regarding “unacceptable language and behaviour” had been clearly explained to all housemates before entering the competition. Producers emphasized that George’s actions could be considered offensive to Sam, other housemates, and the viewing public .

“Big Brother thinks your language was unacceptable and could cause offence and is therefore issuing you with a warning,” the show stated. George acknowledged the warning, saying, “I have apologized. I don’t want to make anyone feel like that, so I will be walking on eggshells around Sam from here on in” .

The formal warning issued to George serves as a clear reminder that further misconduct could result in removal from the house. Big Brother UK maintains strict protocols for addressing behavior considered offensive or discriminatory, documenting violations and communicating consequences directly .

The incident has prompted intense debate among viewers and on social media. While many agreed that George’s impression was offensive and warranted disciplinary action, others argued that the producers’ response was overly sensitive. Some viewers expressed empathy for Sam, referencing the emotional harm caused by such stereotypes and the importance of creating safe spaces for LGBTQ+ individuals on reality television. Others criticized the show’s approach, suggesting that George was being unfairly targeted .

Comments ranged widely. One viewer described the “walking on eggshells” remark as an “immature cop out,” while another claimed, “It wasn’t that offensive.” Others lamented a perceived culture of blame, with one saying, “George is basically being bullied at this point” .

This episode highlights ongoing challenges around LGBTQ+ representation and respect within the reality television genre. The use of stereotypes—such as limp wrists or exaggerated speech—has long been recognized as harmful, reinforcing negative perceptions and contributing to environments where queer individuals may feel marginalized or unsafe. Sam’s reaction underscores the personal impact such portrayals can have, evoking painful memories of bullying and exclusion .

Advocates for LGBTQ+ inclusion emphasize the importance of proactive intervention by producers and networks. By issuing a formal warning, Big Brother UK sends a message about the need for accountability and the expectation that all contestants treat each other with dignity and respect, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. The show’s response sets a precedent for other reality programs, demonstrating that offensive language and behavior will not be tolerated .

Big Brother UK continues to air Sunday to Friday at 9pm on ITV2 and ITVX, with producers monitoring housemate conduct closely and viewers encouraged to engage respectfully with the conversation .