ITV Big Brother hit with more than 70 Ofcom complaints as viewers claim male contestant is 'danger' to women

The broadcast regulator Ofcom has received 72 complaints concerning contestant Marcello's conduct and alleged misogynistic remarks following an episode of the ITV2 reality show that aired on Friday (October 11).

The controversy arose after Marcello claimed to have kissed fellow housemate Ali, who identifies as a lesbian, in the smoking area. When the pair came back inside after their smoking break, Marcello, aged 34, told the other contestants that he had kissed 38 year-old-Ali. Big Brother then broadcast footage to disprove his claim, however. It showed the pair vaping and nothing else.

The scene left viewers outraged, with some calling for the producers to intervene and address Marcello's actions. One viewer commented on X: "Is Big Brother gonna step in and caution Marcello's behaviour? It is becoming uncomfortable.", reports the Mirror. Another person called for him to be taken out of the famous house. They said: "I think Big Brother should remove Marcello, he's clearly a danger to the female housemates". One more agreed. They wrote: “Marcello is actually a danger towards women. If he's acting like this in a televised situation I dread to think how he is on the outside?”

Marcello was criticised by viewers for "treating the show like Love Island", the ITV 2 dating show and "sexualising every conversation with women". The youth mentor from East London has attracted negative attention from viewers since entering the house as he has been flirtatious with the female participants.

In earlier episodes, he shared with Big Brother his "love for women", listing those he finds attractive in the house and even saying he's "probably going to lips it" with Ali. In another instance, he complimented another housemate Rosie on her looks, asking if she had ever modelled.

When Marcello entered the house earlier this month, he revealed he applied for he show as he wanted to “test” himself and his “new found confidence”. He added: “My main goal is to share the positivity and optimism I have in me. Long term, I really think I can make an impact with people and help people grow.”

He also said then that he was open to a house romance. “I'd love to be able to sit with someone and just laugh my head off and have that connection with someone,” he said.

ITV has not commented on the Ofcom complaints.

• Big Brother airs Sunday to Friday on ITV2 and ITVX at 9pm